From Pitch to Praise Podcast: “Lifelong Learners and the Big Stage: Worship That Connects” – S1E9

In this episode of From Pitch to Praise, Matt and Alan sit down with Andrew Whitehouse, Worship Minister at Legacy Church of Christ in Fort Worth, TX, where he’s served for the past four years. A veteran in ministry since 2009, Andrew brings a rich perspective shaped by both local leadership and life on the road. Before his time at Legacy, Andrew sang tenor and baritone for The Vocal Union, a southern gospel a cappella group with The Acappella Company. He shares what it was like to graduate from Harding, get married, and immediately hit the road—traveling up to 35 weekends a year in full-time music ministry. What could’ve been overwhelming, Andrew remembers as a blessing.From a fateful connection in Paris, Texas to an audition at the Tulsa Workshop, Andrew’s journey into VU is both inspiring and affirming. He reflects on the deep influence of Gary Miller, the group’s bass vocalist and spiritual anchor, whose heart for songwriting and ministry left a lasting mark.  The conversation turns to the dynamics of leading worship in a large church. With a 1,500-seat auditorium, Andrew opens up about the joys and challenges of stewarding such a space: the “big sound” of congregational singing, the effort it takes to connect with the back row, and the difficulty of steering change in a large setting. They even laugh about the "quicksand” of slow tempos in big rooms—Andrew jokes he’s “happy to fight that battle.”  Andrew also shares the exciting news that Praise & Harmony will return to Legacy in 2025 to record their next album—anopportunity he and Matt both consider deeply impactful for their churches. The episode closes with a meaningful conversation about the Worship Leader Institute (WLI). As a WLI student, Andrew describes how the experience has shaped him, regardless of his years in ministry. The culture, he says, is one of lifelong learning, where everyone—from beginners to veterans—can grow.🎧 Whether you lead from the platform or sing from the pew, this episode is a reminder that worship is a journey.