The hymn “Come Thou Fount of Every Blessing” is one of the most beloved songs in Christian worship. Known for its beautiful melody and heartfelt lyrics, it has been sung in churches for centuries. As a musician, learning the Come Thou Fountain chords can enhance your ability to lead worship or play this timeless hymn in your personal devotion. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced player, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know about playing Come Thou Fountain chords on guitar, piano, and other instruments.
What is “Come Thou Fount of Every Blessing”?
Originally written in 1758 by Robert Robinson, “Come Thou Fount of Every Blessing” is a hymn expressing gratitude for God’s grace and calling for a closer connection with Him. The lyrics are poetic and deeply spiritual, with lines like “Here I raise my Ebenezer” and “Prone to wander, Lord, I feel it,” which resonate with believers of all ages.
The song is typically sung in a slow to moderate tempo, with its message focused on God’s continual blessing and the human tendency to stray from His path. The Come Thou Fountain chords are relatively easy to play, making it a great hymn for both beginner and intermediate musicians.
The Basic Chords for “Come Thou Fount of Every Blessing”
One of the main reasons this hymn is so accessible for musicians is because the Come Thou Fountain chords are fairly simple. The song is often played in the key of G major, which is comfortable for guitarists and pianists alike. Below are the basic chords for the first verse:
Guitar Chords (Key of G)
In the key of G, the Come Thou Fountain chords are:
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G
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D
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Em
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C
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A7 (optional for additional flavor)
Here’s an example of how the chords fit with the lyrics:
Piano Chords (Key of G)
On the piano, you’ll typically play the same chord structures, using the left hand for the root note and the right hand for the chord. The chords in the key of G are:
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G major (G – B – D)
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D major (D – F# – A)
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E minor (E – G – B)
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C major (C – E – G)
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A7 (A – C# – E – G)
If you’re playing in a congregation or as part of a group, the piano part can be simplified with just the root chords, but adding a little more texture with inversions and arpeggios can really bring the song to life.
Transposing “Come Thou Fountain Chords” to Other Keys
Although the song is commonly played in G major, it can easily be transposed to different keys depending on the vocal range or personal preference. For example:
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Key of C: Ideal for singers with a higher vocal range.
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Key of D: Often used in church settings, as it suits a wide range of voices.
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Key of E: A good choice if you want to raise the pitch without using a capo.
If you play guitar, using a capo is a great way to adjust the key without learning new chord shapes. For example, placing a capo on the 2nd fret and using G chord shapes will give you the key of A.
Simplified Chord Progressions for Beginners
If you’re just starting to learn an instrument, you can simplify the Come Thou Fountain chords even further. For beginners, try this simpler version using basic chords like C, G, and Am. Here’s a simplified progression for the first verse:
This simplified version eliminates the more complex chords, making it easier for beginners to get started.
Strumming and Picking Patterns for Guitar
If you’re playing Come Thou Fountain chords on guitar, choosing the right strumming pattern can make a big difference in how the song sounds. A simple down-down-up-up-down-up pattern works well for most arrangements. Here’s how it would sound with the first few lines of the song:
If you want to add a little more style, consider fingerpicking. The Travis picking style, which alternates between bass and melody strings, works well for this hymn and adds a folk-like quality to the song.
Piano Tips for Playing “Come Thou Fount of Every Blessing”
When playing Come Thou Fountain chords on the piano, consider these tips:
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Use inversions: Instead of playing the root position of each chord, try inverting them for a smoother transition between chords.
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Add arpeggios: Arpeggiating the chords (playing the notes one by one rather than all at once) can make the song sound more delicate and flowing.
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Pedal use: Use the sustain pedal lightly to create a fuller sound. Avoid pressing it down too hard, as this could make the chords sound muddled.
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Play with dynamics: Experiment with volume changes to match the emotional highs and lows of the song. A softer approach at the start and a stronger finish can be very effective.
Why Learn “Come Thou Fountain Chords”?
There are several reasons why learning the Come Thou Fountain chords is worthwhile:
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Timeless hymn: This song has been a part of Christian worship for over 250 years, making it a meaningful addition to any musician’s repertoire.
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Easy to play: The song’s simple chord progressions make it accessible for musicians at various skill levels.
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Spiritual depth: The lyrics are rich with meaning and provide an opportunity to connect deeply with God through music.
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Versatility: This hymn can be played in a variety of settings, from personal worship to leading congregational singing.
FAQs About “Come Thou Fountain Chords”
1. What key is “Come Thou Fount of Every Blessing” usually played in?
The hymn is most often played in the key of G major, but it can easily be transposed to other keys, such as C major or D major, depending on the singer’s vocal range.
2. How can beginners play “Come Thou Fountain”?
Beginners can start by using a simplified version of the Come Thou Fountain chords in C or G major. Focus on basic chords like C, G, and Am, and use a simple strumming pattern to start.
3. Can I use a capo to change the key of the song?
Yes! Using a capo on the 2nd fret (for example) will change the key to A major while still using the chord shapes for G major, which is great for guitar players.
Conclusion
Learning the Come Thou Fountain chords is a rewarding journey for any musician, from beginners to seasoned players. This hymn has stood the test of time due to its beautiful melody, rich lyrics, and deep spiritual message. Whether you play guitar, piano, or any other instrument, mastering these chords will not only improve your musical abilities but also deepen your connection to the song’s timeless message.
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