Ever found yourself wanting to play “Lord of Hosts” but unsure where to start with the chords? You’re not alone—many musicians, from beginners to worship leaders, seek the right chords to bring this powerful song to life.
Knowing the correct chords can transform your practice sessions and performances, helping you play confidently and engage your audience. In this article, we’ll break down the “Lord of Hosts” chords, offer step-by-step guidance, and share helpful tips for smooth transitions.
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How to Play “Lord of Hosts” Chords: A Complete Guide
Understanding the Main Question
If you’re searching for “how Lord of Hosts chords,” you likely want to learn how to play the song “Lord of Hosts,” sometimes known as “Psalm 46 (Lord of Hosts),” on guitar or piano. This song, made popular by artists like Shane & Shane, The Worship Initiative, and Misty Edwards, is a favorite in many worship settings because of its uplifting message and memorable melody.
Below, you’ll find everything you need to know to start playing this song confidently—whether you’re a beginner or looking to add it into your worship band’s setlist.
What Are the Basic Chords for “Lord of Hosts”?
Most versions of “Lord of Hosts,” especially those performed by Shane & Shane, are played in the key of D major. This is a comfortable key for guitarists using standard tuning and also works well for group singing.
Common Chords Used
Here are the primary chords you’ll encounter in the song:
- D major (D)
- G major (G)
- B minor (Bm)
- A major (A)
- F# minor (F#m)
- E minor (Em)
How These Chords Work in the Song
The song’s structure is straightforward, relying on a progression that utilizes these chords in various combinations, fitting beautifully with the song’s driving and hopeful energy.
Step-by-Step: Playing “Lord of Hosts” on Guitar
Playing this song doesn’t have to be complicated. Here’s a simple breakdown of how you can get started:
1. Tune Your Guitar
Make sure your guitar is tuned to standard tuning (EADGBE) before you begin.
2. Learn the Basic Open Chords
If you’re new to guitar, start by learning how to play open D, G, and A chords.
- D major: x00232
- G major: 320003
- A major: x02220
For minor chords like Bm and F#m, you’ll need to practice barre chord shapes:
- B minor: x24432 (bar at 2nd fret)
- F# minor: 244222 (bar at 2nd fret)
3. Understand a Typical Song Progression
While the arrangement may vary, a common chord progression for “Psalm 46 (Lord of Hosts)” is:
D - G - D - Bm - A - D
-
Verse Example:
D G D
O come behold the works of God
Bm A D
The nations at His feet… -
Chorus Example:
D G
The Lord of Hosts, He’s with us
Bm A D
With us in the fire, with us as a shelter…
Practice transitioning between these chords until you can play smoothly.
4. Focus on the Strumming Pattern
The song carries a strong, driving beat. Start with a simple strumming pattern using downstrokes. As you get more comfortable, add upstrokes and accents, matching the song’s energy.
5. Add Capo if Needed
Depending on your voice or the group, you may wish to place a capo higher up the neck. Commonly, worship leaders will use a capo on the 2nd or 4th fret to better suit vocal ranges.
Playing “Lord of Hosts” on Piano
If you’re a pianist, the same chords apply but with simple triad or root position forms. Use your left hand to play the bass note (the root of the chord) and your right hand for the chord’s upper notes.
Piano Chord Suggestions
- D major: D – F# – A
- G major: G – B – D
- B minor: B – D – F#
- A major: A – C# – E
You can play in block chords or build in rhythmic patterns to mimic the percussive drive of the song.
Benefits of Learning “Lord of Hosts” Chords
Why This Song Is a Good Choice
- Modern Worship Favorite: The song is frequently played in churches and worship events.
- Accessible Structure: The progression is repeatable and easy to grasp for beginners.
- Dynamic Range: Suitable for solo performance or full band.
- Emotional Impact: Uplifting lyrics and powerful melodies.
Common Challenges and How to Overcome Them
Learning a new song always presents a few hurdles. Here’s how to overcome the most common obstacles:
1. Barre Chord Difficulty
- Challenge: B minor (Bm) and F# minor (F#m) require you to use barre chords, which can be tough for beginners.
- Solution: Practice fret-hand strength and start slowly. Alternate finger placements to minimize fatigue.
2. Fast Chord Changes
- Challenge: Moving quickly between G, D, and A, especially in up-tempo verses.
- Solution: Repeat the chord changes slowly, then gradually increase speed as your muscle memory improves.
3. Strumming Consistency
- Challenge: Maintaining a steady, energetic strum throughout the song.
- Solution: Start with simple downstrokes, then incorporate upstrokes and syncopation as you become confident.
4. Singing and Playing Simultaneously
- Challenge: Coordinating vocals and guitar chords.
- Solution: Practice the chord changes separately first. Then, hum the melody while playing, gradually adding words.
5. Adjusting to Vocal Range
- Challenge: The original key may not suit your voice.
- Solution: Use a capo on the guitar or transpose the chords on piano to fit your comfortable singing range.
Best Practices for Learning Worship Chords
Following these practices will help you master “Lord of Hosts” and similar songs efficiently:
- Break sections into small parts (verse, chorus, bridge).
- Practice transitions between each chord pair.
- Record yourself to check timing and consistency.
- Play along with the original recording when possible.
- Join a group or play with a friend for feedback and encouragement.
Extra Tips: Saving on Sheet Music and Resources
Learning to play worship music doesn’t have to break the bank. Here are a few tips on staying cost-conscious:
- Free Online Tabs: Use free online chord and tab websites. Many provide basic chord sheets and user-generated resources at no cost.
- Digital Downloads: Many music platforms offer low-cost or free PDF downloads, eliminating the need for shipping.
- Music Apps: Dedicated apps often have trial versions or basic free features for practicing songs.
- Group Purchasing: Worship teams can pool funds for a single licensed purchase, reducing individual cost.
Shipping costs rarely apply since most chord sheets are digital. If you ever want printed books or posters, combine orders to save on shipping fees.
Bringing It All Together: Play, Practice, and Enjoy
Whether you’re playing “Lord of Hosts” alone at home or leading a congregation, learning its chords is a fulfilling and accessible goal. With basic chord shapes and strumming techniques, you’ll be ready to lead or follow in a worship setting. Remember that practice and persistence are key—mastering this song will open doors to playing many more like it.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What key is “Lord of Hosts” usually played in?
“Lord of Hosts” is commonly played in the key of D major. However, you can use a capo or transpose it to another key to better fit your vocal range.
Are there easier versions for beginners who struggle with barre chords?
Yes. If barre chords like Bm or F#m are too challenging, you can substitute them with simpler versions or use a capo to shift the key and play open chords more comfortably.
How can I make my strumming sound more like the original recording?
Listen carefully to the song, focusing on the rhythm and emphasis. Start with simple downstrokes, then gradually add upstrokes and syncopation as heard in the recording. Recording yourself and comparing will help you get closer to the original feel.
Can I play the song on piano using the same chords?
Absolutely. The chord names are the same for both guitar and piano. On piano, use triads (three-note chords) in the right hand and play the root note with your left hand. You can simplify or elaborate based on your skill level.
Is there a cost to access chord sheets for “Lord of Hosts”?
Many chord sheets are available for free online. However, some arrangements and official PDFs might require a small fee. Digital resources typically don’t involve shipping, but if you’re purchasing printed materials, look for stores that offer discounts on bulk or bundled items to save on costs.
By following these steps and tips, you’ll be ready to play “Lord of Hosts” with confidence, whether in a small group or a larger worship setting. Enjoy making music!