Take your time. Transition is a process, not an event. Blended worship won’t happen overnight. Those leading this change need to read the congregation and know when (and pray over how) to move. This change should occur gently, over time, and with exemplary leadership and execution (see next bullet!).
Communicate, communicate, communicate. The leadership of the music team needs to work closely with the leadership of the congregation. It is crucial that both be on the same page when it comes to goals and execution.
Push aside your own musical preferences. If you’re on the music team, this is crucial to the success of blended worship. Just because you like a particular kind of music, this doesn’t necessarily mean that it’s the best fit for your congregation (at least 100% of the time). The most impactful leaders are those who can put the worship preferences of the congregation before their own.
Expand your “musical taste buds.” Those on the music team need to work towards having an appreciation for all styles of music and be able to create excitement around these different styles.
Expect challenges. It would be naïve to not expect challenges and/or criticism during a time of change and transition. The more we expect challenges going in, the more prepared we will be to meet them.
Don’t compromise quality. If you’re going to gently introduce more contemporary worship songs to the congregation, for instance, make sure that these songs are presented well. God deserves our best, regardless of the style.
Call the right people together. Even though one might be very musically talented, this doesn’t necessarily mean that they have the ability and temperament to lead change. Make sure that any individuals leading change are big-picture people who see and understand the many facets of the church, not just the worship side.