ADVENTURES SO FAR
BILLY PAYNE
Music Arranger, Worship Arts Pastor, Music Conductor, and Keyboard Player
COMPANIES I’VE WORKED WITH
BILLY’S STORY
As a kid, I wanted to play the guitar. Because rock and roll was cool.
But my parents said I had to learn piano first. So, I started lessons in third grade. In fourth grade, I aced the music test given by the band directors and they told me I could play whatever instrument I wanted, which was then the saxophone. Because it was cool.
But my parents owned a clarinet, and the band directors said if I learned that first, I could switch to saxophone later. Into high school, I was still playing clarinet ... now in the marching band. It was not cool.
But the band needed someone to play bells on the drumline. Thanks to my piano background, I jumped ship for the bells, and also learned other percussion instruments during concert season in advanced band.
That was a little cooler.
But that wasn't enough. I also learned to play trumpet in the beginner band. During this time, I continued to sing in the church youth choir, to play in the church orchestra, and I started to play keyboards in the youth praise band.
Playing all these different instruments really helped me understand how orchestras work and how the various parts all fit together. I started transcribing music and learning how to arrange for bands.
In college, I majored in theory and composition and went on to work for several large churches writing music as needed for their worship services.
And that has been really cool. No buts about it.
Billy's forte lies in writing music that is easy and fun to learn, yet sounds more intricate than it actually is.
His compositions embody the essence of accessibility, making the learning process a joyful journey while simultaneously offering a sophisticated sound that captivates audiences.
It's a musical alchemy where simplicity and sophistication dance in perfect harmony, showcasing Billy's knack for turning musical notes into an enchanting experience for everyone involved.
His orchestrations have left an indelible mark, gracing the pages of the 1991 Baptist Hymnal and Word's revered collections like "More Songs for Praise and Worship" (1-3) and "Hymns for Praise and Worship."
Billy's musical journey came full circle with contributions to the 2007 Baptist Hymnal and LifeWay Worship's online hymnal.
Through these milestones, Billy has not only left his imprint on the musical landscape but has also enriched the worship experiences of countless congregations.
Ways To Work Together
COMMISSIONS
Hire Billy to create a special arrangement specifically for your choir or orchestra.
WORKSHOPS
Book Billy to motivate, inspire, and enhance the skills of choirs and orchestras that are at varying levels.
STAY IN THE KNOW
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