Keyboard: Music’s Hammer

The Keyboard is to music as the hammer is to… well just about everything. The hammer is a must have tool. It is the tool that is called upon when the “right” tool isn’t available. It is the multipurpose wonder. There is no problem that the hammer can’t solve, or so it seems. But the problem with the hammer is that we tend to use it for so many applications other than that for which it is made.

I feel the same way about the keyboard. It is a must have instrument with so many unique uses, but for some reason we tend to misuse it. Gone are the days when we “Celebrate Jesus Celebrate” to the rhythms of the piano, yet keyboard players are stuck trying to carry the rhythm of our songs. The first thing keyboardist do when they jump on the keys is put it to their best piano sound and play rhythm. Is their no trust in the drummer?  Isn’t the acoustic guitar driving the rhythm too, and aren’t you just playing over the bass’s register with your left hand rhythm.

Lets rethink the way we play. Think selfless and think space. What can you add to the music that isn’t already being done? Maybe space. The keyboard is such a beautiful instrument when we get past the place where we feel like we have to dictate time. Practice with a rhythm track even if its just shaker, let shaker dictate the time and make music.

Here are some other great uses of the keyboard.

1. Pads – fill up the sound
2. Strings – counter melodies and holding notes through progressions
3. Organ – add energy but use only your hand and use the left for control
4. Whirly – Love that sound
5. Piano – but play counter melodies and fill gaps with musical phrases
6. Horns – for the right song of course, but you have to think like a horn section
7. Synth Lead – Create arpeggiated techo sounds

Do you find yourself stuck in a keyboard rut? Are you adding to the music or clouding up the space?