The Best Contemporary Christian Songs to Play on Piano

We understand the powerful connection between music and worship at Visible Music College. And we can also tell you that playing Christian music on the piano is an inspiring and fulfilling journey that blends incredible melodies with heartfelt lyrics to create a profoundly moving worship experience. And as a plus, transitioning from traditional hymns to contemporary Christian songs brings a refreshing and modern flair to your repertoire.

So, whether practicing for personal enjoyment or preparing for a worship service, these songs provide a vibrant, new perspective on worship music. And because we love this genre, we've guided you to explore some of the best, most moving contemporary Christian songs to play on the piano, along with some tips on where to find sheet music, chord charts, and recommended video tutorials.

Top Contemporary Songs to Play

"How Great Is Our God"

Chris Tomlin's "How Great Is Our God" is a powerful anthem that has become a staple in worship services worldwide. The song's simple yet profound melody makes it an excellent choice for pianists of all skill levels. The chords are straightforward, and the song's structure allows for expressive playing, making it a joy to perform.

Hillsong's "Oceans (Where Feet May Fail)"

"Oceans (Where Feet May Fail)" by Hillsong United is a beautiful, contemplative piece that has touched many hearts. Its gentle, flowing melody and poignant lyrics make it perfect for solo piano performance. The song's dynamic range and emotional depth allow pianists to explore expressive playing techniques and connect deeply with the music.

Matt Redman's "10,000 Reasons (Bless the Lord)"

Matt Redman's "10,000 Reasons (Bless the Lord)" is a joyful and uplifting song celebrating gratitude and worship. The song's repetitive and catchy chorus makes it easy to learn and play. It's a favorite in many worship settings, and its accessibility makes it a great addition to any pianist's repertoire, offering both simplicity and beauty.

Lauren Daigle's "You Say"

Lauren Daigle's "You Say" is a soulful and powerful tune that has captured the hearts of many. Its introspective lyrics and beautiful piano arrangement make it a standout piece. The song's moderate tempo and straightforward chords allow pianists to focus on conveying its emotional message through their performance, making it both touching and impactful.

Michael W. Smith's "Waymaker"

"Waymaker" by Michael W. Smith is a moving and spiritually uplifting song. Known for its powerful lyrics and simple yet effective chord progression, it's an excellent choice for beginners and experienced pianists. The song's repetitive structure makes it easy to learn, while its powerful message provides depth and meaning, making it a joy to play and share.

Sheet Music and Chord Charts

Finding the right sheet music and chord charts is essential for learning these songs. Here are some resources:

• Free Resources: Websites like Musescore and 8notes offer free sheet music and chord charts for many contemporary Christian songs. These resources are great for getting started without any cost.
• Paid Resources: For more comprehensive and professionally arranged sheet music, websites like Musicnotes and Sheet Music Plus provide high-quality options. These often include additional features such as annotations and performance notes.

Tips for Reading and Playing Chord Charts:

• Familiarize Yourself with Basic Chords: Understanding common chord progressions in contemporary Christian music will make learning new songs much more accessible.
• Practice Transitions: Focus on smooth transitions between chords to maintain the flow of the music.
• Use a Metronome: Keeping a consistent tempo is crucial, especially when playing in a worship setting.

Video Tutorials and Practice Tips

• PianoTutorialEasy: This channel offers step-by-step tutorials for many popular Christian songs, breaking down each part to make learning easier.
• PianoNest: Known for its comprehensive tutorials, PianoNest provides clear instructions for a wide range of contemporary Christian music.
• Worship Tutorials: This channel not only provides piano tutorials but also covers other aspects of worship music, making it a valuable resource for musicians.

Step-by-Step Practice Guides:

• Start Slow: Begin practicing at a slower tempo to ensure accuracy, gradually increasing the speed as you become more comfortable.
• Break It Down: Work on one song section at a time. Master each part before assembling the whole song.
• Record Yourself: Recording your practice sessions can help you identify areas that need improvement. Doing this can also help you track your progress over time.

Final Thoughts

From the powerful anthems of Chris Tomlin to the soulful melodies of Lauren Daigle, contemporary Christian music offers a rich and varied repertoire for pianists. And incorporating these songs into your practice will definitely enhance your skills and further your connection to the music. Visible Music College offers an incredible environment to nurture your musical talents, providing the resources and community you need to grow as a musician. Embrace this incredible path you've chosen, and let your music resonate with the beauty and depth of contemporary worship.