Hymn Improvising Piano Lesson - Part One

I was in fifth grade when I received my first improvising lesson from the hymnal. The hymn I improvised was "At Calvary". It took me at least two months to master this improvised style in a flowing rhythm. "At Calvary" was not the best hymn to try first since this particular hymn contains a more complex rhythm.

Here are the first two improvising steps I learned to create a fuller sound in hymnplaying.

First, open a hymnal to the hymn "Like a River Glorious". I chose this hymn because it is in an easy key and contains a simple rhythm.

Let me preface this lesson with the following clarification: The hymnal is written for voice parts only, not for an instrument. Therefore, the pianist must adapt by adding notes to create a fuller sound giving more support to the singers.

The soprano is the top note on the treble staff. The alto is under the soprano. The tenor note is the top note on the bass staff and the bass note is under the tenor.

Step one: add the tenor note to the right hand when feasible. The right thumb plays the tenor note.

You should be playing a total of three notes in the right hand.

Exception: Sometimes the tenor note fits better between the alto and soprano note. This occurs when the alto and soprano have a greater distance between them; allowing space for the tenor note to fit comfortably between them.

It is best to practice the right hand alone (with the added tenor note) until a steady flow can be maintained.

Expect to feel disoriented at first by adding the tenor note to the right hand without it being written that way.

Step two: Double the bass note in the left hand. Place your left thumb on the written bass note and duplicate the same note an octave lower.

Doubling the bass note is basically playing in octaves. This second step adds a deep, rich sound to the hymn!

Be prepared to slow down when adding the left hand to the right hand. Keep in mind, it may take a while to master this style. Be patient with yourself. Once you play one hymn this way, you can apply the same two step process to other hymns.

Choose hymns in easy keys with simple rhythms at first. Once you have gained confidence, move on to hymns with more complex rhythms.

This two step improvising method will allow the pianist to sound full enough to support congregational singing.

Over time, more improvising skills can be obtained; adding even more life and fullness to hymn playing!

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