How to play CLOSER - Chainsmokers ft. Halsey Piano Chords Accompaniment Tutorial

How to Play Closer by The Chainsmokers ft. Halsey on Piano

This tutorial guides you through playing the chord accompaniment for 'Closer' by The Chainsmokers featuring Halsey on piano. It covers the key of A flat major, chord progressions for intro, verse, pre-chorus, and chorus, and offers tips for playing challenging chords and transitions. The tutorial is suitable for intermediate players and includes rhythm guidance and creative embellishments.

Welcome to this comprehensive tutorial on playing the chords accompaniment for "Closer" by The Chainsmokers featuring Halsey. This guide will walk you through the chord progressions, hand positions, and rhythm patterns needed to perform the song on piano. The tutorial is designed for players with some experience, as some chords may be challenging for beginners.

Key and Scale

The song is in the key of A flat major. The notes of the A flat major scale are essential for forming the chords used throughout the song. Middle C is used as a reference point for locating notes on your keyboard or piano.

- The highest note needed is the C above middle C.
- If playing octaves, the lowest note required is the D flat below middle C.

Intro and Chorus Chord Progression

The intro and chorus share the same chord progression and rhythm. The chords are repetitive, making it easier to master once you get the hang of the pattern.

Chords Used:

1. D flat major add 9
2. E flat major first inversion
3. F minor 7
4. E flat major

Playing the Intro/Chorus:

- The top voice of all chords is an E flat, which should be the highest note played in each chord.
- Left hand plays the root notes or octaves if you can stretch.
- Right hand plays the chord shapes, often in first inversion.

Rhythm Pattern:

Count along as you play: 1 and 2 and 3 and 4 and

Play the chord progression twice for the intro and chorus sections.

Verse Chord Progression

The verse uses similar chords but with slight variations and fewer octaves in the left hand to keep the texture lighter.

Chords Used:

- D flat 9 (single D flat in left hand)
- A flat major 7 (optionally add E flat in the bass)
- F minor 7 (single F in left hand)

Playing the Verse:

- Play the left hand notes once per chord.
- The right hand plays the chord shapes with added notes for richness.
- The progression supports the lyrics: "Hey, I was doing just fine before I met you..."

Additional Variation:

- After repeating the A flat major 7 chord three times, play E flat and G in the left hand with C and A flat in the right hand, then move to G and back to D flat 9.
- On the fourth repetition, end with an E flat chord before moving to the pre-chorus.

Pre-Chorus Chord Progression

The pre-chorus rhythm is similar to the intro and chorus.

Chords Used:

- D flat 9
- E flat major
- F minor 7
- A flat major 7 over E flat

Playing the Pre-Chorus:

- Repeat the chord progression four times.
- The rhythm maintains the song's momentum leading into the chorus.

Chorus Section

The chorus repeats the intro chord progression but with fuller left-hand chords.

Playing the Chorus:

- Left hand plays full chords (e.g., D flat major: D flat, F, A flat).
- Right hand adds the add 9 note (E flat) to enrich the harmony.
- Maintain the established rhythm pattern.

Tips:

- If left-hand chords are challenging, practice slowly and focus on smooth transitions.
- Add your own quick embellishments or "flicky notes" before main chord changes to personalize your playing.

Song Structure Summary

- Intro: Chord progression played twice.
- Verse 1: Chords with lighter left hand.
- Pre-Chorus: Four repetitions of chord progression.
- Chorus: Full chords with rhythmic consistency.
- Verse 2: Same as Verse 1.
- Pre-Chorus: Same as before.
- Chorus: Repeat with build-up.
- Outro: Same as intro, fading out.

Additional Tips and Practice Suggestions

- Practice each section slowly before increasing tempo.
- Focus on hand coordination and smooth chord transitions.
- Experiment with adding or omitting notes to suit your comfort level.
- Use the provided chord and lyric sheets (linked in the original tutorial) for reference.

Conclusion

This tutorial offers a detailed approach to playing "Closer" by The Chainsmokers ft. Halsey on piano, focusing on chord accompaniment. With practice, you can master the repetitive chord progressions and rhythm patterns to perform the song confidently. Remember to take your time with tricky chords and enjoy adding your personal touch to the music.

Happy playing!