How to Use Multitracks in Worship (Even If You’re Not Tech-Savvy)
If you're a church musician, soloist, or music director and ever wished for a reliable way to practice with a full band—or to fill in missing parts on a Sunday morning—then multitracks may be just the tool you need. The good news—they're easier to use than you might think.
In this post, I’ll explain what multitracks are and how to use them—even if you're not particularly comfortable with technology. And I’ve created a full video walkthrough you can watch below that shows you exactly how to get started using the Prime app with multitracks.
▶️ Watch the full tutorial on YouTube
🎶 What Is a Multitrack?
A multitrack (sometimes called a stem track) is a special type of audio file that separates each instrument or part of a song into its own channel. So instead of a single stereo backing track, you have individual control over parts like:
- Piano
- Bass
- Drums
- Click track (metronome)
- Vocal guide cues
This allows you to mute, solo, or adjust the volume of each part. You can also change the tempo or key to better fit your voice or playing style.
Whether you’re rehearsing at home, performing solo, or leading a worship team, this flexibility opens up all kinds of creative possibilities.
📱 How Do I Use Multitracks?
To use multitracks, you'll need a free app that supports stem playback. If you have an iPhone or iPad, I recommend the Prime app from Loop Community. It’s simple to use, and it works well for live or practice settings.
Here's what you can do with it:
- Turn off the piano stem if you’re playing live
- Lower or raise the volume of any instrument
- Practice slowly by adjusting the tempo
- Change the key to suit your vocal range
- Use the click and cues to stay in sync
- Build a personalized mix for your setting
In the video, I walk you through how to:
- Download the Prime app
- Upload my “Wade in the Water” multitrack
- Adjust your playback mix
- Practice, rehearse, or perform with confidence
🛠 What If I Don’t Use Apple Devices?
Right now, the Prime app is only available for iOS (iPhone and iPad), but if you use Android, there are some alternative apps like Multitrack Player that may work. In the video, I explain how to get started on both platforms.
🎹 Why I Created These Tracks
I designed these multitracks to accompany my jazz arrangement of “Wade in the Water”—available in my Spirituals piano collection, and as the first title in my new Spirituals Solo Series for instrumentalists. I wanted to make it easier for musicians to rehearse or lead worship even when a full band isn’t available. With these tracks, it’s like having a jazz combo at your side—but you’re in control.
If you’d like to try it out, you can find the full multitrack set for “Wade in the Water” right here:
👉 View the Multitrack Performance Kit
💡 Final Thoughts
I know tech can feel intimidating at first. But once you get the hang of it, using multitracks can really add to your music ministry and help you serve with greater confidence and excellence. And if you're ever stuck—reach out. I'm here to help.
▶️ Don’t forget to watch the tutorial video here:
Watch on YouTube
Thanks for reading—and I hope this opens up new musical possibilities for you!
Grace and groove,
Craig
