OurWorshipSound

Keyboard strings tips [video]

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 Playing keyboard strings sounds is very common. To do it well, it’s best to consider what you are aiming for. Are you trying to add texture, add high end energy, or make the song sound orchestral? Your answer will affect not only how you play, but how you prepare your sounds as well. In this post and video (scroll down), we’ll cover both playing style and adjusting your sounds sounds to fit … [Read more...]

Hands together piano practice method [video]

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With piano, even when you know what to play and can do it with each hand separately, it's difficult to put both hands together. To help this, we’re going to talk through some steps that, once defined, can bring you success in less time. Steps toward hands together 1. First, identify and isolate a difficult section in your music.  If the whole song is challenging, break it down into manageable … [Read more...]

DIY keyboard stand to simplify my rig

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Looking for a sleeker, more attractive setup, I decided on a DIY keyboard stand. I had grown discontent with my rig at church for at least three reasons: It looked too "music gear-ish." Ultimate Support Apex has updated their iconic Apex column stand, but the triangle column stand I was using looks dated (early 2000’s). It has a very strong “music gear” aesthetic, no getting around it. Just … [Read more...]

How to fill in between piano chords

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An audience member recently emailed me to ask, "How do you know what to play in between piano chords?" The question has to do with filling the space, adding rhythm and interest to the performance. In the latest video, using the songs "Holy Spirit" and "Great Are You Lord," I outlined three possible approaches: chords-only, improvised melodies, and chords plus melodies. Approach 1: … [Read more...]

Creative keyboard approach to “Great Are You Lord”

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Every musician wants to reach the point where he/she is not only playing correctly, but playing with inspired creativity.  But how do we bridge the gap between just playing the chart and truly playing creative keyboard? Often when we hear artists play creatively, it’s not that they are performing with spectacular technique or profound musical understanding. It's just that they’re doing a few … [Read more...]