The Church Pianist: Introduction Tips for Congregational Singing (Part Two)

(Question & Answer Format)

1. What part of the song should be the introduction?

Normally, the first and last phrase of the song. (Beginning the introduction with the first
phrase allows the congregation to hear how the song starts.)

2. What about introductions for a song with more than one time signature?

It is very important to play the first and last phrase of the verse. (as long as the verse ends on a one chord.)

The congregation needs to hear the initial time signature. I prefer to play the first line of the song with chord modifications near the end of the sentence.

For example: "Sweeter As the Years Go By"

(3/4 time on verse & 4/4 time on chorus)

I would play: “Of Jesus’ love that sought me When I was lost in sin. (first line)

The words: “…lost in sin” would have to be altered to make the intro sound complete.

Here are the alterations; one word at a time:

“lost” change melody to a “G” above middle C (use an E flat 7 chord in left hand)

“in” change melody to a “B flat” above middle C (hold the previous LH chord)

“sin” change melody to an “A flat” above middle C (use A flat chord in LH)

It is up to the church pianist to give a clear introduction.

The above pointers will help to create a stable introduction for congregational singing.

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