Sweeter Sounds Music Network

Improvising "The Cleansing Wave" | How to Improvise Hymns on the Piano

Join us as we go through the song "The Cleansing Wave" by Phoebe Knapp demonstrating some lovely styles for improvisation!

One of the most VERSATILE left-hand patterns is the octave-chord pattern. Check out these variations to add a ton of flavor into your piano playing!

The octave-chord pattern is one of the most versatile left-hand patterns around, but what if we made a fancy version of it? Check out how to add fun rhythms to your left hand for more variety!

Have you ever watched someone sit down and play a song they just heard for the first time? Have you ever heard someone play a song when all they know is the melody?

There's a trick to that! And it involves knowing what are called "primary chords." These are the strongest, most prominent chords in any key. They are built on the first, fourth, and fifth notes of that scale.

Watch the video to learn more!

One of the simplest yet unique ways to add a delightful variety into your hymn playing is by moving the melody to the left hand.

Add in chords, arpeggios, or more with your right hand!

Do you ever feel like you get "stuck in a rut" in music? Sometimes it really helps just to watch someone else play!

Here's a demonstration of "To God Be the Glory" played in congregational style.

Check out this lovely left hand arpeggio!

It's nothing fancy, but it sounds amazing all because of one added note.

You can use this arpeggio best in 4/4 songs with simple chords and relatively few chord changes.

Enjoy!

The music before the service is so important in setting the tone and atmosphere of the actual service. Different churches prefer different styles, but it should always be fresh and engaging.

Here is a sample prelude. Comment below what techniques or songs you'd like to see in closer detail!

Here is a simple piano rendition of the beautiful chorus “Jesus Saves Today” by Dennis Stremming.

We hope it gives you some ideas for playing your own songs more freely and creatively.

If you enjoy church piano music, please leave a comment with a hymn you’d like to hear!

Have you ever heard music that sounds lifeless and hollow?

Here are five tips to help you bring your music to life!