The Church Pianist: Improvising with Stepping Octaves

This improvised example of: "Like a River"

illustrates the style used for congregational

singing.

Notice the full chords which depict a majestic
mood and provide support to the singers.


Editor notes by measure numbers:


Measure#1: When using the 3rd note of a chord in the
bass, omit the 3rd of the chord from the
right hand. (beats 3 and 4)


Measure#3: Left hand plays stepping octaves on beats
3 and 4 for rhythmic variety.


Measure#4: Stepping octaves in both hands for
special emphasis and also carries the
singers easily to their next note.


Measure#8: Once again...the stepping octaves keep the
the rhythm moving and leads the singers
confidentially to their next note.

Try using stepping octaves in the following hymns:

My Jesus I Love Thee
When I Survey the Wondrous Cross
More Love To Thee

New website: http://thechurchpianist.com