Playing Christian Songs

If you desire to play christian music for a church it's not difficult at all. Or maybe you already play for a church, and you are a worship musician. If so then, you probably play with a piano, or an organist who are usually the lead muscians. No matter whats your situation there are a few things you'll need to know.

Keyboard players play melody and bass at the same time, so you'll need to find a place to fit-in. You'll probably have to discuss what they want you to do, play chords with them, play rhythm guitar, play scale riffs, or fills. Make sure you know exactly what they want you to do.

You'll need a good chord chart book for the songs you'll be playing. Learn what key the keyboardist we'll play in. Some christian musicians will play certain songs in keys that they are comfortable with, and that key may not be the one the as written on the sheet music. Make sure you coordinate before the service so that everything runs smoothly.

If you are the sole chord player then you'll have to be very well prepared. It would be good to have a real good chord chart book of the songs your playing. That's a book with the chords written above the lyrics. Learn the key the songs are written in and try to play in the songs in the written key. People tend to want to sing a song in the key that they learned the song in, and it's usually the one written. Sing along while playing it will it will assist you in knowing when to make chord changes. Most songs are written with the natural II, V, I, chord progression, find them. The II,V,I's will help you learn the songs. If you are not familiar the circle of fifths. Always accompany the singer(s), and try not compete with them. It's a good idea to practice each song at least twice before performing them. If you do all these things you'll be okay. And remember to always play to fit the mood of the church. What greater service then worshiping the Lord in song.