Skipping-stone chords
One chord, then two bounces on the “ands”, like a stone on water. One of the syncopated chord patterns.
How to play it
Find the notes
Put your right hand over a C chord. You need E (thumb, 1), G (index finger, 2) and C (little finger, 5).
Count and play
Count "1 & 2 & 3 & 4 &" (say "and" for &). Play E, G and C together on 1, 2& and 3&.
Move it with the chords
When the chord changes to G, the same rhythm moves to the notes of G: B, D and G. Play it slowly over the chord loop above, at 60% speed first, then faster.
Songs that use it
Questions
What is Skipping-stone chords on piano?
One chord, then two bounces on the “ands”, like a stone on water. Right-hand chords with off-beat pushes. Musicians call it syncopated chords, 1, 2&, 3&.
Is Skipping-stone chords hard to play?
It is a beginner pattern. Play it with your right hand alone at 60% speed until it feels steady, then add the other hand.
Which songs use Skipping-stone chords?
Lady In Red by Chris de Burgh, Wait For You by Elliott Yamin and I Will Sing by Don Moen use Skipping-stone chords. The songs on this page all use it in the right hand, the most played first.