Worship Piano Transitions: How to Flow Smoothly Between Songs
How do you transition naturally from one song to the next in a worship set? Here are 3 of my favorite choices to use when transitioning between songs:
Option #1: End one song, and start the next.
This is the simplest way to transition between songs! Simply finish one song, perhaps with a softer ending, and then pause for a few moments and begin the next song.
This transition works well nearly all the time. To avoid any unwanted gap in sound between songs, you may consider using a pad (the AeroPads app is excellent, if your keyboard does not have a built-in pad sound).
Option #2: Play a suspended progression.
This transition works well if both songs are in the same key. Simply play a suspended progression. For example, in the key of C, you would play this progression, with each chord lasting one measure:
C-Csus-C-Csus
To find the Csus chord, we raise the 3rd of the C chord (the E) by one note, resulting in C-F-G. This formula applies to other chords as well. For example, Dsus would be played D-G-A.
This transition can be played over and over again, and it allows you and the congregation time to reflect and meditate in stillness before moving to the next song.
Option #3: Modulate using the V7 (57) chord of the new key.
If your songs are in different keys, you MAY be able to use this cool modulation to change key. (Note that it does not work or sound good between all keys, so be sure to try it out ahead of time!)
For this modulation, we find the 5 chord of the new key, add a 7th just for additional color, and play that as a pivot chord between the songs.
For example, let’s assume our first song is in the key of C and our second song is in F. The 57 chord of the new key is C7. (In the key of F, the 5 chord is C. Then we add the 7, resulting in C7.) So once you have finished your song in C, play a C7 chord (C-E-G-Bb), and then begin playing your new song in the key of F.
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!