How to Play Worship Songs by Ear on Piano
Ear training is one of the most rewarding aspects of learning music… when you are actually able to hear what the next note or chord should be, and then play it - all without referencing any sheet music or chord charts!
The key to ear training is to practice a little bit at a time (even 5 minutes a day) and not get discouraged because you are making progress, whether you notice it or not!
In my lessons and courses, we develop your aural skills to hear both melodies and chords. However, for this article, we will focus only on hearing chords, because worship pianists typically begin by playing chords.
Here are a few tips to get you started in developing your ear:
Step #1: Understand the 1, 2m, 3m, 4, 5, and 6m chords.
Each key consists of 6 primary (main) chords. For example, in the key of C, the primary chords are:
1: C (C major)
2m: Dm (D minor)
3m: Em (E minor)
4: F (F major)
5: G (G major)
6m: Am (A minor)
As you can see, the 1, 4, and 5 chords are major; and the 2m, 3m, and 6m chords are minor. This formula holds true for any key. You can find a simple explanation of the 6 chords in each key by watching the video here.
Step #2: Start by playing the 1 and 4 chords.
Alternate playing the 1 and 4 chords over and over, noticing how the sound is different.
Perhaps you could even notice which scale degrees are different between these two chords. For example, the 1 chord uses the third note of the scale, whereas the 4 chord uses the fourth note of the scale. That can be a simple way to differentiate between the chords.
Step #3: Add the 5 chord.
Now alternate between the 1, 4, and 5 chords, noticing how the sound of the 5 chord is different from the other two chords. It may be helpful to close your eyes as you play so that you can focus on the sound of the chords.
Step #4: Add the 6m chord.
Now add the 6m chord. Play the 1, 4, 5, and 6m chords, noticing the differences between them. The 6m is the first minor chord that we have played, so you will notice a much different sound. Minor chords tend to sound more “sad” or melancholy, whereas major chords tend to sound more “happy” and joyful.
Step #5: Add the 2m chord.
Now add the 2m chord. Play the 1, 4, 5, 6m, and 2m chords, specifically noting the differences between the 6m and 2m chords.
Step #6: Add the 3m chord.
Finally, add the 3m chord. Note especially the differences between the 6m and 3m chords.
Step #7: Take a break, and repeat!
Now, take a break from ear training. Come back to it a different day, and do the same exercise. Over time (usually over the course of a few days) this exercise will become easier, and you will more easily be able to hear the differences between these chords.
After you have completed this exercise a few times, try listening to some of your favorite worship songs, and see if you can pick out any of the chords! Can you hear when they are playing a 1 chord, or a 5 chord? You will most likely notice a major improvement in your ability to hear chords after even a few days of practicing this exercise!
More Ear Training
If you would like to learn ear training by watching video tutorials, check out my Early Advanced Worship Piano course, which contains 2 exclusive lessons on ear training to hear both melodies and chords.
Free PDF Download
You can download a free PDF file of Worship Piano Reference Charts here. This resource kit includes piano key names, chord diagrams, seventh chords, scales, and chords in a key / Nashville Number System.
Want to learn more?
If you would like to learn how to play worship piano like a pro, check out my Worship Essentials courses. This unique approach combines a simple, easy-to-follow method of learning the piano along with teachings on the heart of worship - and it has proven successful for people of all ages and levels.
Or, if you would prefer one-on-one instruction, consider online lessons. Lessons incorporate the same content of the Worship Essentials courses but have the added bonus of one-on-one coaching and instruction.
Happy worshipping!