How to Play Gospel Passing Chords + 🔥 Bonus Progression

Introduction

This tutorial will guide you through playing gospel passing chords and a bonus progression, focusing on the 2-5-1 chromatic passing chord progressions. These techniques are applicable in various music styles, including Gospel, R&B, Jazz, and Neo Soul. By the end, you'll be able to express your creativity on the piano with ease.

Step 1: Understanding 2-5-1 Progressions

• Definition: A 2-5-1 progression consists of three chords: the second (2), fifth (5), and tonic (1) chords of a scale.
• Example in C Major:
  • 2 chord: Dm7 (D minor 7)
  • 5 chord: G7 (G dominant 7)
  • 1 chord: Cmaj7 (C major 7)

How to Play

1. Locate the Dm7 chord.
2. Move to G7.
3. Resolve to Cmaj7.

Step 2: Adding Chromatic Passing Chords

• Chromatic Passing Chords: These are additional chords that connect the main chords in a progression, enhancing musical flow.
• Common Passing Chords:
  • Between Dm7 and G7, you can add a D# diminished chord (D#dim).
  • Between G7 and Cmaj7, consider using an A# diminished chord (A#dim).

How to Incorporate

1. Play Dm7.
2. Add the D#dim chord as you transition to G7.
3. Transition smoothly to G7.
4. Use A#dim before landing on Cmaj7.

Step 3: Experimenting with Different Keys

• To apply the 2-5-1 progression in various keys:
  • Identify the key you want to play in (e.g., D major).
  • Find the corresponding 2-5-1 chords:
    • 2 chord: Em7
    • 5 chord: A7
    • 1 chord: Dmaj7

Practice Tips

• Practice shifting the progression to different keys.
• Use a metronome to maintain timing as you switch chords.

Step 4: Exploring the Bonus Progression

• The bonus progression enhances your playing with unique transitions.
• Example: In the key of C, try a progression like Cmaj7 - A7 - Dm7 - G7 - Cmaj7.

Implementation

1. Start with Cmaj7.
2. Move to A7, creating a sense of tension.
3. Transition to Dm7 and then G7.
4. Resolve back to Cmaj7 for completion.

Conclusion

By mastering the 2-5-1 chromatic passing chords and exploring different keys and bonus progressions, you can enhance your piano playing skills significantly. Practice these steps regularly to build fluency and confidence in your musical expression. Consider exploring the additional resources linked in the description for further learning and inspiration. Happy playing!