of the bow or with unique , evolving bowing techniques that come and go as you perform . These kinds of non-traditional string sounds ground your pads in something ‘ real ’ without fitting in the strict orchestral mold .
WHERE STRINGS
One of the areas keys players most often struggle is with voicing their string sounds on the keyboard . It ’ s not often as simple as layering the strings in with your piano and playing the night away .
In order to convincingly play string sounds live you have to consider the practical restrictions an actual orchestra work within by nature . When an arranger is scoring parts for an ensemble they ’ re directly aware of how many simultaneous parts or notes the ensemble can perform . Each part of the string section will be clearly laid out and defined based on the available performers and needs of the song .
From the keyboard , our limits aren ’ t necessarily the same . Theoretically we can play many notes at once if using both hands and the complication of a sustain pedal allows us to hold a number of simultaneous notes no ensemble ever would .
But when we play string sounds in ways that a live ensemble never could we pass into the uncanny valley , where people start to recognize that something they ’ re hearing isn ’ t quite as it should be .
So when you ’ re choosing the chords , voicings , and parts to play for your string sound try to envision a string player or section for each note you press . If you choose to imagine a trio , limit yourself to three simultaneous notes . If you feel the song calls for a bigger ensemble that ’ s fine too but work on pursuing realism in your decision making during preparation so it comes as second nature during performance .
A STRING THING
It ’ s truly a blessing that thanks to modern technology we can make so many interesting choices about the textures we bring to our worship services . String sounds can make a big impact if you use them wisely . I pray that the next time you feel inspired to do so that your congregation is encouraged by your intention , artistry , and creativity .
David Pfaltzgraff Founder and Lead Sound Designer at SundaySounds . com , a site that resources worship keys players and guitarists around the world . David currently resides in Des Moines , IA with his wife and two boys . He enjoys volunteering in his church ’ s worship ministry , old synthesizers , and a good super-hero movie .
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