The Understanding the Scriptures Podcast (Understanding-Scriptures.com) is composed of 30 episodes with each episode having a length between 72 and 80 minutes. Each episode/class covers one of the 30 chapters in the textbook titled "Understanding the Scriptures," by Dr. Scott Hahn, Ph.D. (this textbook is part of the Didache series published by the Midwest Theological Forum at TheologicalForum.org). Listeners to the podcast need not purchase this textbook, though it would be beneficial to do ...
…
continue reading
Carson Weber Podcasts
If you play piano, organ, synths, pads, or any keys instrument for worship ministry or the music industry, you are in the right place! Nashville-based worship keys player, Carson Bruce, interviews a variety of different musicians every week. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned pro, this is the podcast for you to learn and feel inspired to enhance both your technical playing skills and to also gain spiritual encouragement while being in a local church congregation. New episodes release ev ...
…
continue reading

1
Navigating Music Ministry: Insights from Anaji & Kaci Powell
1:02:12
1:02:12
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
1:02:12Watch on YouTube Join us on the Worship Keys YouTube channel as Carson welcomes husband-and-wife duo Anaji and Kaci Powell from Faith Church in Rochester, New York. In this episode, they share their journey in music and ministry, from how they met to serving God together through worship. Kaci talks about her experience as a female organist in a mal…
…
continue reading

1
How to Blend CCM & Gospel on the Piano with Carlous Drake
1:03:19
1:03:19
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
1:03:19Watch on YouTube Carlous Drake from Chattanooga, Tennessee joins us for this week episode on The Worship Keys Podcast. Carlous shares the merging of Contemporary Christian Music (CCM) with gospel genres, exploring practical techniques and cultural insights for worship key players. He shares his musical journey, experiences in ministry, and provides…
…
continue reading

1
How to Organize Your Ableton Live Session with Andrés Páez
1:09:37
1:09:37
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
1:09:37Watch on YouTube! In this episode of the Worship Keys Podcast, Music Director Andrés Páez from Abundant Church in El Paso, Texas, shares his inspiring journey from growing up in a small church in Spain to leading modern worship with excellence. He recounts his moves from Spain to Denmark, then to Florida, and finally settling in Texas, where he hon…
…
continue reading

1
Volunteering as a Keys Player at Red Rocks Church with Micah Weber
26:49
26:49
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
26:49Watch on YouTube Come hang out with Carson Bruce on the Worship Keys YouTube channel as he chats with Micah Weber, a passionate volunteer keys player from Red Rocks Church. Micah opens up about his move from Oklahoma to Colorado, why worship leaders matter, and what it means to serve as a volunteer in worship ministry. You’ll hear practical tips on…
…
continue reading

1
Worship Keys Sound Design & Balancing Tour Life/Ministry with Spooky Scott of Red Rocks
58:43
58:43
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
58:43Join Spooky Scott from Red Rocks Worship at the Worship Keys Podcast. Spooky share about life on the road, leading worship, and all the gear and tech that makes it happen. He dives into how he uses the Nord Stage 3 for sound design, how Red Rocks stays unified across campuses with tools like Resi, and what it really looks like to balance touring wi…
…
continue reading

1
From College Friends to Worship Leaders with Jenna & Zoë
1:11:33
1:11:33
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
1:11:33Join Carson Bruce for a heart-to-heart with Jenna and Zoë, a talented worship duo from Nashville with a powerful story to tell. They open up about how they met in college, their journey into worship music, and what it’s been like to battle anxiety and stage fright while staying faithful to their calling. From songwriting to leading worship, they sh…
…
continue reading

1
The Lifelong Influence of a Good Piano Teacher with Tim Abel
1:01:55
1:01:55
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
1:01:55Watch on YouTube Carson sits down with his childhood piano teacher, Tim Abel, for a heartfelt conversation full of music, memories, and ministry. They talk about the power of playing by ear, the journey from trombone major at JSU to worship leader, and the real stories behind leading worship. Tim shares practical tips for key players, from the basi…
…
continue reading

1
Funky Chord Progressions in CCM with Natalie Layne
1:05:29
1:05:29
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
1:05:29Watch on YouTube Welcome Natalie Layne, to The Worship Keys Podcast! Natalie opens up about life on the road, her early days in music, and how she went from indie artist to signing with Centricity Music. We talk about everything from her classical roots to her creative songwriting process. Natalie also shares about her journey on social media, the …
…
continue reading

1
How to Use Tracks in Spontaneous Moments of Worship in Ableton with Evan Fernald of TBCO
33:33
33:33
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
33:33Watch on YouTube In this episode of The Worship Keys, Carson Bruce chats with Evan Fernald from The Belonging Co. about all things tracks in worship. Whether you're new to using tracks or looking to level up your setup, this conversation dives into the heart behind it all—how to keep worship spontaneous and structured. Evan breaks down his process …
…
continue reading

1
How to Create a Great Sound Design & Tone on Keys for Worship with Evan Fernald of TBCO
58:00
58:00
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
58:00Watch on YouTube Carson Bruce is joined by Evan Fernald, music director and keys player at The Belonging Co. In this episode, Evan opens up about his spiritual journey and gives an in-depth look at his worship keys setup from how he blends hardware and software to create seamless worship moments, to his personal approach to sound design, layering, …
…
continue reading

1
5 Chord Progressions Every Worship Keys Player Should Know with Alex Smith
37:33
37:33
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
37:33Watch on YouTube In this episode, Carson Bruce sits down with special guest Alex Smith from Georgia to break down five must-know chord progressions every worship keys player should have in their toolkit. Recorded live at Foothills Church in Knoxville, Tennessee, this session is packed with practical tips for beginner and intermediate musicians from…
…
continue reading

1
How to Play Aux Keys for Worship with Micaiah Wesler
1:08:07
1:08:07
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
1:08:07Watch on YouTube Join us in welcoming Micaiah Wesler to the Worship Keys YouTube channel as we dive into the world of auxiliary keys in worship music. In this episode, Micaiah shares how he first discovered aux keys back in 2012 at The Ramp and how years of learning and dedication helped him master the craft. We’ll cover the key differences between…
…
continue reading

1
How to Produce Stems for Worship in Logic Pro X with Josh Brown
1:23:19
1:23:19
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
1:23:19Watch on YouTube Welcome Josh Brown, a renowned producer, songwriter, and musician. The discussion takes listeners through Josh's incredible musical journey, from starting out on drums to mastering the piano and creating multi-tracks for worship services. Josh shares insights on crafting stems from scratch in Logic Pro, emphasizing the importance o…
…
continue reading

1
How to Program Keys and Synths in a Worship Song in Logic Pro X with David O. Ramirez
44:35
44:35
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
44:35Watch on YouTube David O. Ramirez joins us once again for another episode of The Worship Keys! In this episode, David gives a detailed look into his song production process from pre-production and working with bands to post-production techniques. He breaks down his workflow using Logic Pro X templates and shares practical insights on editing, mixin…
…
continue reading

1
Logic Pro X Template Tips for Producers & Worship Keys with David Ramirez
24:49
24:49
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
24:49Watch on YouTube David Ramirez is back to take us inside his Logic Pro X template that streamlines workflow and elevates worship production. He breaks down his full process of song production, synth layering, key programming, and organizing sound palettes. You’ll see how he uses plugins like Arcade for micro loops, layers warm, organic piano textur…
…
continue reading

1
The Best Advice for Worship Keys Sound Design with David O. Ramirez
1:02:28
1:02:28
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
1:02:28Watch on YouTube Join us in welcoming David O. Ramirez to The Worship Keys YouTube channel for an inspiring conversation. David is a renowned keys player, producer, songwriter, and sound designer. In this episode, he shares his journey of playing with the band Leeland, his passion for sound design, and his experience touring around the world. David…
…
continue reading

1
Lo-Fi Instrumental Piano Worship Music with Sam Garner
1:00:58
1:00:58
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
1:00:58Watch on YouTube Let’s welcome Sam Garner—Sam the Beard Guy—for an inspiring and laid-back conversation about blending ambient lo-fi with instrumental worship. From touring with Shane & Shane to crafting his own unique sound, Sam shares how his journey as a seasoned keys player has shaped his music. You'll get behind-the-scenes stories, a look at h…
…
continue reading

1
What it Means to be a Pro Musician? with Louie Higuera
1:06:44
1:06:44
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
1:06:44Watch on YouTube Meet Louie Higuera on The Worship Keys Podcast! Louie shares his diverse journey from playing at church services to performing with Grammy-winning artists. He highlights essential skills like time management, knowing your tools, personality, and work ethic. He also offers valuable advice on balancing creativity with the business si…
…
continue reading

1
Is Worship Music Harder to Play than Pop? with Marcus Wiles
56:11
56:11
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
56:11Watch on YouTube Welcome to the Worship Keys YouTube channel! In today's special episode, host Carson Bruce sits down with the incredible Marcus Wiles, an expert keys player and music director. Marcus shares his extensive experience from playing for renowned artists like Jordan Feliz and Kelsea Ballerini to producing and arranging in Nashville. The…
…
continue reading

1
How to Get Good Tone on the Hammond Organ with Ralph Lofton
1:02:01
1:02:01
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
1:02:01Watch on YouTube Ralph Lofton shares his journey from playing at Sunday school to collaborating with renowned artists such as Aretha Franklin and BeBe & CeCe Winans. He offers insights on mastering the Hammond B3 organ, emphasizes the importance of dynamics, and provides advice to aspiring musicians. Ralph also discusses his upcoming projects and s…
…
continue reading

1
The Versatility of the Hammond Organ with Virgil Straford
34:07
34:07
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
34:07Meet Virgil Straford — a Grammy and Dove-nominated producer with a deep-rooted legacy in gospel music. In this episode, Virgil takes us through his journey from Chicago to Nashville, sharing insights from his decades-long career and collaborations with icons like Yolanda Adams and CeCe Winans. He breaks down the craft of organ playing, the value of…
…
continue reading

1
Difference in Playing Live at Church vs In the Studio on Organ with Dwan Hill
38:17
38:17
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
38:17We are excited to welcome Grammy, Dove, and Stellar Award-winning arranger, songwriter, artist, and worship leader Dwan Hill. The episode dives deep into the art of incorporating the Hammond B3 organ into modern worship music, specifically Contemporary Christian Music (CCM) and Gospel, and sharing good tips on playing live vs in the studio. Dwan sh…
…
continue reading

1
5 Things Every Hammond Organist Should Know for Church
22:22
22:22
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
22:22In this episode, we welcome Curt Buell back! He covers five crucial techniques every Hammond B3 organist should know for playing in church settings. Topics include glissandos and slides, walking bass lines, inversions and voice leading, church walk-ups, and major/minor blues licks. Curt also shares a preview of his Organ Masterclass, where these te…
…
continue reading

1
How to Play the Hammond B3 Organ: Full Overview with Curt Buell
28:51
28:51
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
28:51We welcome back Curt Buell to the podcast for an in-depth tutorial on the Hammond B3 organ. Curt provides an extensive overview of the organ's features, including its drawbars, vibrato settings, presets, and expression pedals. He demonstrates the dynamic range and the versatility of the B3, offering practical tips and favorite settings for various …
…
continue reading

1
How to Improv on Piano with Otto Gross
1:02:53
1:02:53
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
1:02:53Watch on YouTube Welcome to Part 2 with Otto Gross, an exceptionally talented and creative pianist. Otto shares tips for improvisation, playing in different church settings, mastering scales, chords, rhythms, and more. Discover Otto's techniques on playing dominant chords, utilizing pentatonic scales, and integrating bluesy elements to enhance your…
…
continue reading

1
Fostering a Life of Creativity with Otto Gross
59:27
59:27
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
59:27Watch on YouTube Carson talks with Otto Gross II, an accomplished multi-instrumentalist and worship director at a church in Nashville, TN. Otto shares his journey through scoliosis surgery, discovering his love for the piano, graduating from Berklee College of Music, and his time playing keys on the road with Eddie James Ministries. Otto also discu…
…
continue reading

1
Keys & Tracks Rig with Tyler Wester from Church of the Highlands
1:00:42
1:00:42
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
1:00:42Watch on YouTube This is Part 2 with Tyler Wester from Church of the Highlands in Alabama. He shares his journey from MainStage to Ableton, breaks down his go-to piano sounds, and gives us a behind-the-scenes look at his custom setup, gear, favorite plugins, his tracks rig, and more. They also dive into the creative process behind the Church of the…
…
continue reading

1
MD and Keys Tips with Tyler Wester from Church of the Highlands
58:41
58:41
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
58:41Watch on YouTube Carson interviews Tyler Wester, the musical director of the multi-site Church of the Highlands in Alabama. Tyler shares his journey from learning piano as a child to being full time with Highlands for nearly a decade, offering valuable insight into the heart and logistics of his music ministry. Tyler breaks down the key differences…
…
continue reading

1
Piano Tuning Tips with Austin from Seale Keyworks
43:52
43:52
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
43:52Watch on YouTube Welcome Austin Seale from Seale Keyworks. Austin, who just tuned my Acrosonic Baldwin upright piano, shares insights into the world of piano maintenance and tuning. We discuss the success of Seale Keyworks and its comprehensive services that has been around for 40 years now, including moving, tuning repair, restoration, player syst…
…
continue reading

1
Discipleship in Your Worship Team with Jin from On Water Podcast
1:08:45
1:08:45
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
1:08:45Carson sits down with Jin Choi, host of the On Water Podcast and a psychotherapist from Toronto, Canada. They dive deep into the topics of discipleship, heart posture, and the importance of connection within worship teams. Jin shares her personal journey from childhood in a Korean church to her current role at Church on the Queensway. Don't miss he…
…
continue reading

1
Different Levels of Playback Rigs with Seth Builds Rigs
1:17:05
1:17:05
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
1:17:05In this episode of the Worship Keys Podcast, host Carson Bruce dives deep into the world of playback rigs with Seth Penn from Seth Builds Rigs. They discuss the importance of playback tracks in worship settings, how to build pedal boards for keyboards, and explore various levels of playback rig setups from entry-level to pro-level with redundancy. …
…
continue reading

1
Easiest Way to Run Tracks at Church with Matt from Loop Community
44:19
44:19
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
44:19In this episode, Carson sits down with Matt McCoy, founder and owner of Loop Community, to discuss the intersection of technology and worship. They dive deep into the vision behind the Worship Innovators Conference, practical implementations of technology in worship services, and making multi-tracks accessible through Prime and other Loop Community…
…
continue reading

1
How to Approach Spontaneity in Modern Worship with Jonathan from 10kFam
55:44
55:44
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
55:44Join Jonathan from Colorado Springs as he shares his experiences and insights on dynamic and spontaneous worship in church services. Jonathan, who works with New Life congregations and 10,000 Fathers and Mothers, delves into the need for worship leaders to also be effective pastors, fostering disciple-making cultures. He reflects on his upbringing …
…
continue reading

1
How to Avoid Fatigue in Your Worship Team with Jamie from Ascension Worship
37:44
37:44
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
37:44In this episode, Jamie Miley of Ascension Worship dives deep into effective strategies for enhancing worship team collaboration, and avoiding fatigue and burnout in your worship ministry. Learn about the Ascension Network's innovative approach to connecting musicians with local churches, practical tips for managing rehearsals and resources, and the…
…
continue reading

1
How to Reharmonize Worship Songs with Clark Beckham
1:15:42
1:15:42
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
1:15:42Join Carson Bruce on the Worship Keys Podcast as he welcomes American Idol runner-up Clark Beckham. They delve into the art of reharmonizing worship songs, exploring music theory, industry insights, and the balance between performance and heartfelt worship. Clark shares his musical journey, key influences, and experiences on American Idol while off…
…
continue reading

1
Best Atmospheric Pads for Modern Worship with Isaac from Aerospace Audio
47:11
47:11
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
47:11In this episode, we dive deep into the world of atmospheric pads with Isaac, the lead owner and sound designer of Aerospace Audio. Discover the inspiration behind their innovative app and pedal, which enhance worship services, songwriting sessions, and performances of all kinds. Isaac shares his journey from a pastor's kid to a worship leader, and …
…
continue reading

1
Best App for Worship Keys Players in 2025 with David from Sunday Sounds
55:58
55:58
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
55:58In this episode, we sit down with David, the CEO and founder of Sunday Sounds. Join us for an in-depth discussion about the origins of Sunday Sounds, a pioneering company revolutionizing sound design for worship music. Dive deep into the features of Sunday Keys, including the AI Patch Builder, the app's seamless integration with MIDI controllers, a…
…
continue reading

1
Christmas Classics on the Piano with Curt Buell
12:13
12:13
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
12:13In this special Christmas edition, join us as we celebrate the holiday with Curt Buell from the Buell Institute of Music. Curt plays some beautiful Christmas tunes with the support of worship pads from Aerospace. Merry Christmas!! Curt Buell Website Playing Worship Keys By Ear eBook Free Silent Night Notation Resource Thanks for listening! Subscrib…
…
continue reading

1
Playing Christmas Music by Ear on Piano with Curt Buell
17:01
17:01
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
17:01Carson and Curt Buell dive into playing Christmas songs on the piano without sheet music or chord charts needed. Curt demonstrates his ability by playing various Christmas classics like 'Blue Christmas,' 'Last Christmas,' and 'Carol of the Bells.' They discuss the importance of listening and learning to play by ear, the influence of experience, and…
…
continue reading

1
How to Reharmonize Christmas Songs with Roger Ryan
53:45
53:45
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
53:45Welcome 8-time Grammy-nominated producer and award-winning artist Roger Ryan. Roger shares his profound insights from decades of collaboration with renowned artists such as Whitney Houston, Cece Winans, and Kirk Franklin. Delve into their engaging discussion on reharmonizing and arranging Christmas music, essential techniques, and creative approach…
…
continue reading

1
3 Levels of Playing Silent Night with Curt Buell
43:44
43:44
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
43:44Carson Bruce is joined by Curt Buell from the Buell Institute of Music to discuss three different approaches to playing 'Silent Night' on the piano—beginner, intermediate, and advanced levels. The episode is filled with tips and insights for enhancing your worship keys playing during the Christmas season, focusing on melody, chord progressions, and…
…
continue reading

1
The Power of Prayer with Georgia Brown Williams
1:00:52
1:00:52
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
1:00:52Watch on YouTube Click Here to get Georgia's Devotional Join Carson as he sits down with Georgia Brown Williams to discuss the transformative power of prayer. In this episode, Georgia shares her personal journey through college, the impact of her family, and the significance of maintaining a prayer life. Discover the importance of forgiveness, how …
…
continue reading

1
Playing Keys for Eddie James with Justin Patrick Ford
1:01:43
1:01:43
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
1:01:43Watch on YouTube Eddie James Christmas Glory Album on Spotify Hear the inspiring musical journey of Justin Patrick Ford, from his early love for the organ at his family’s church to becoming a musician for Eddie James Ministries. Justin shares his passion for music, chord theory, and his unique journey through different musical influences including …
…
continue reading

1
From Classical to Contemporary (Part 2) with Sandy Stephenson
56:20
56:20
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
56:20Click here to watch on YouTube Join Carson as he sits down with Sandy, a seasoned pianist, for an in-depth discussion about her journey from learning piano as a child, struggling with various teachers, and eventually finding her passion through competitions. She discusses her ministry work, children's musical productions, and the transition from tr…
…
continue reading

1
From Classical to Contemporary with Curt Buell
45:31
45:31
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
45:31Carson welcomes back Curt Buell from the Buell Institute of Music. They explore the transition from classical to contemporary music, breaking down how understanding music theory can bridge the gap. Curt shares his expertise in music theory, playing techniques, and more, with practical examples from classical pieces like Bach's Minuet in G. They als…
…
continue reading

1
Red Rocks Worship Keys Setup with "Spooky" Scott Miller
50:12
50:12
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
50:12Carson heads to Littleton, Colorado to meet with special guest, Scott Miller, also known as 'Spooky Scott' of Red Rocks Worship. You will gain insights into blending spontaneity and structured worship, crafting complex worship piano arrangements, and utilizing tools like the Nord Stage 3 and MainStage for live performances or worship services. Spoo…
…
continue reading

1
TobyMac's Keys Player of 25 Years: Dave Wyatt (D-dub)
1:02:08
1:02:08
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
1:02:08Dave Wyatt, better known as Ddub, is a Grammy award-winning producer, songwriter, and keys player. We discuss his nearly 25-year-long career with TobyMac, starting from his beginnings with DC Talk in 1999. Dave shares stories about his journey into music, the struggles and triumphs of touring, and balancing his life on the road with family. He open…
…
continue reading

1
Synth Bass, Sub Bass, & Electric Bass in a Worship Service with Travis Dykes
1:03:04
1:03:04
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
1:03:04Travis Dykes is a professional bassist, and the first ever bassist on the Worship Keys podcast. We discuss the intricacies of sub bass, synth bass, electric bass, and Travis's musical journey from starting at a young age to becoming a professional in Nashville. Travis shares valuable tips on techniques, gear, and the importance of playing in a band…
…
continue reading

1
How to Lead Worship from a Keytar with Clifford Walker
1:00:42
1:00:42
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
1:00:42Clifford Ray Walker shares his unique journey in worship leading, introducing the innovative use of a keytar, and emphasizes the importance of balancing structure and spirit-led worship. This episode offers a deep dive into effective worship team leadership, the impact of heartfelt worship, and the role of innovation in ministry. Aerospace Audio: h…
…
continue reading
Welcome Tré Robinson, a multi-talented musician from a musically gifted family! Tré talks about his sense of humor on social media and the importance of laughter, emphasizing its positive impact on people's lives. We also go through some of his favorite memes. Special thanks to Aerospace Audio for sponsoring this episode: https://www.aerospaceaudio…
…
continue reading