” 10000 Reasons (Bless the Lord) ” by Matt Redman is a popular contemporary Christian worship song that resonates with many due to its heartfelt lyrics and beautiful melody. In this blog, we’ll break down the steps to play this inspiring song on the piano.
Understanding the Song Structure
Before we dive into the specifics, let’s outline the song structure. “10,000 Reasons” follows a typical verse-chorus format with the following sections:
Intro
Verse 1
Chorus
Verse 2
Chorus
Bridge
Chorus (repeated)
Basic Chords
The song is played in the key of G major. The main chords you’ll need are:
G
D
Em
C
Am
Here are the chord diagrams for reference
G Major Chords
D Major Chords
E Minor Chords
C Major Chords
A Minor Chords
Previous
Next
Intro
The intro sets the tone for the song. You can start with a simple pattern using the G and C chords:
G C G C
Play each chord for two measures to establish a steady rhythm.
Verse 1
For the verses, you’ll follow a chord progression that aligns with the lyrics. Here’s how you can play Verse 1:
G C
The sun comes up, it's a new day dawning
G D
It's time to sing Your song again
Em C
Whatever may pass and whatever lies before me
G D G
Let me be singing when the evening comes
Chorus
The chorus is uplifting and emphasizes the main message of the song. The chord progression for the chorus is:
G D
Bless the Lord, O my soul
Em C
O my soul
G D
Worship His holy name
G D
Sing like never before
Em C
O my soul
C D G
I'll worship Your holy name
Verse 2
Verse 2 follows the same chord progression as Verse 1. Simply apply the same chords to the new lyrics:
G C
You're rich in love and You're slow to anger
G D
Your name is great and Your heart is kind
Em C
For all Your goodness, I will keep on singing
G D G
Ten thousand reasons for my heart to find
Bridge
The bridge adds an emotional peak to the song. Here’s the chord progression:
G D
And on that day when my strength is failing
Em C
The end draws near and my time has come
G D
Still my soul will sing Your praise unending
Em C
Ten thousand years and then forevermore
Chorus (Repeated)
Repeat the chorus, emphasizing the worshipful nature of the song.
Tips for Playing
Tempo and Dynamics: Start slow and gradually build up the tempo as you become more comfortable with the chords. Pay attention to dynamics—soft for the verses and more robust for the chorus and bridge.
Pedal Use: Use the sustain pedal to help connect the chords smoothly, especially in transitions.
Practice: Practice each section separately before trying to play the entire song. Repetition will help you memorize the chord progressions and transitions.
Conclusion
” 10000 Reasons (Bless the Lord) ” is a beautiful song that is both simple and powerful. With practice, you can play it confidently on the piano and lead others in worship. Remember to take your time with each section and enjoy the process of making music.
Enroll now at The Mystic Keys to learn more techniques and songs that will elevate your piano-playing skills. Happy playing!