Gospel Chords
When learning gospel chords, there are a few chord types that are important to know. These chords come up again and again. If you can master these, you shouldn't have too much difficulty when in a band situation.
(If this is not exactly what you're looking for, take a look at Learn To Play Gospel Piano. )
Major and Minor Chords
You must learn major and minor chords. They are the root of all others.
If you have learned piano before and know about scales, than these
chords are easy.
Major Chord:
the 1st, 3rd, and 5th notes of the scale. Ex. C.
Minor Chord:
the 1st, lowered* 3rd, and 5th notes of the scale.
*lowered means lower the note by one semi-tone - B to Bb. Ex. cm.
7th Chords
7th chords are built from the major and minor chords. You must add the
7th note of the scale and then lower it by a semi-tone.
7th Chord:
the 1st, 3rd, 5th, and lowered 7th notes of the major scale. Ex. C7.
Minor 7th
Chord: the 1st, lowered 3rd, 5th, and lowered 7th notes of
the major scale. Ex. cm7.
Major 7th
Chord: the 1st, 3rd, 5th, and 7th notes of the
major scale. Ex. CM7.
Suspended Chords
Suspended chords are a little less common and if you get stuck while in
band practice, just play a major chord. The suspended chord uses the
4th note instead of the 3rd note.
Suspended
Chord: 1st, 4th and 5th notes of the major scale. Ex. C4
or Csus.
If you can master these chords, the next
thing to do is learn to play them well. To do that, I would recommend a course
called Learn To Play Gospel Piano. They specialize in
teaching gospel. It's an online course so you can do it right from your
computer. Highly recommended!
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