Worship Interludes - Piano Instrumentals for Prayer, Meditation, Soaking Worship, Relaxation, Study, and Rest

“Prayer” – Solo Piano Instrumental Improvisation, Prayer Music, Meditation Music

I started this morning’s improvisation time with a low, droning pad in the key of A minor. I wanted something simple that would provide a continuous feel but that would also leave the grand piano featured. I rolled back all of the higher string pads and synths so that only the tonic pad and a lower synth were hiding in the background.

As I began to play, I felt a sense of how our prayers are like weapons. I was meditating on the Scripture below:

The weapons we fight with are not the weapons of the world. On the contrary, they have divine power to demolish strongholds.2 Corinthians 10:4, NIV

I believe with all of my heart that prayerful is a powerful weapon. In a season and culture of life here in America, it feels like we are constantly in a battle. There is so much strife and division in our nation. Protests. Riots. Social media is full of streaming division and arguments.

Yet, none of that is really helping. I believe the biggest changes can happen when we humble ourselves and pray.

I hope this short, 7-minute interlude will provide the background music for you to take a moment and pray.

Thank you for listening,Fred McKinnon, Pianist/Composer

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“Love One Another” – Solo Piano Improvisation by Fred McKinnon, Pianist/Composer

We’ve made it to September in a year that has been like no other. This morning’s interlude didn’t come from any special inspiration. It’s one of those mornings where the discipline of recording, editing, and publishing a podcast is the only thing that makes it happen. I’m tired, a little discouraged, and my mind was preoccupied with a mountain of tasks that I have in my business that need attention.

I have a rule about my social media activity – I don’t post updates about politics, social justice issues, or sensitive topics. It’s not that I’m afraid to speak my thoughts or that I don’t care – it’s just that I don’t feel that social media is the place to have that conversation. I’ve rarely heard of a person who had their mind changed or heart softened over an opinionated Facebook post, right? As an individual, I have strong opinions about all of these sensitive issues in our nation. From our presidential election, handling of the corona virus, racial tension, economics, sports … I could go on and on. I’d always rather have those conversations face to face where my tone can be heard and my face can be seen. Too much is read between the lines of a text, tone is implied and presumed, and feelings are hurt.

The past couple of days I’ve broken my rule – still rarely posting my own updates, but I’ve gotten sucked into replying to a few posts here and there. And guess what? It’s so unfulfilling. There is zero gratification. It weights in my heart and clutters up my mind.

I come back to one of the greatest commandments ever given to mankind:

Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength and with all your mind; and, Love your neighbor as yourself.Luke 10:27, NIV

In all of our discourse, this is so critical. When we lose sight of loving God and loving one another, our hearts become polluted with hate, judgment, contempt, and division. What a terrible, dark place to be.

It’s my dream that people would use these piano instrumental interludes as a way to bring themselves back to a place of peace. Stopping and listening to this short interlude gives you an opportunity to rest, listen, and confess. Where have you been judgmental? Where have you been arrogant or presumptuous? Are there things in your heart that are weighing you down? Confess them and move on. Perhaps you will sense the need to ask a specific person or group for forgiveness in the way you may have treated them.

Whether you listen to these interludes during your time of prayer, meditation, or just relaxing – it’s my heart and desire that it’s like taking a bath for your soul. Rinse off the dirt and fatigue. Refresh the tired bones and muscles of your physical body, but more importantly, your spirit.

Thank you for listening!

Grace and peace,Fred McKinnon, Pianist/Composer

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“Calming Waters” – Solo Piano Instrumental Background Music for Prayer, Meditation, Soaking Worship, Relaxation, and Study Music

Today’s interlude is called “Calming Waters”. As I played this morning I felt a calming, peaceful feeling. I had this sense of tension and uneasiness in my soul today. It just washed away when I began to record. After recording I played the piece back for the final mix down. I closed my eyes and just listened to my own instrumental improvisation. I began to notice once again this knot in my stomach, this sense of uneasiness.

When I feel this way – which can be often, I never quite know what to think. As a Christian, I learned at an early age that I have the spiritual gift of discernment. I’ve found myself in so many situations where my spirit is discerning something before my mind does. That often brings a sense of unrest and tension. In many cases, I’ve had a situation come to my mind which I know to pray for. In many other situations, I’ve been strongly impressed to pray for a friend or sometimes, even a person that I just casually know. I’ve even reached out to them with emails, phone calls, or text messages to let them know they were on my heart. In so many cases, it’s eye-opening and inspiring to see that my sensitivity in that moment was accurate and that my reaching out was a reminder to the other person that God was in control.

Then again, I’m also a husband, a father of four children, and an entrepreneur with a busy and sometimes stressful career. At any given moment in my business, there is likely a handful of sensitive, stressful issues that if left unchecked, can pile an immense amount of stress and anxiety into my heart.

Because of this, I’m not always quite sure where these feelings come from. This morning, as I listened to this peaceful interlude, I simply prayed:

Father, I’ve got this tension this morning. I don’t know what it’s about. Perhaps I’ve been carrying some burdens and didn’t even realize it until I slowed down enough to be still. Or perhaps there is something I’m discerning that needs prayer. I’m not sure. So I give myself to you – my wife, my marriage, my children, my business, and all that I hold dear. Give me wisdom, give me peace. Amen.

I really believe that our triune bodies – our spirits, souls, and our physical bodies – speak to us. They may whisper to us for a while but eventually they will scream to get our attention. It’s so much better to discover what is happening earlier than later.

This is one of the many reasons I record and release these interludes. I want so badly to provide a soundtrack that enables you, the listener, to slow down, breathe, rest, and listen. What are you hearing? What are you doing about what you hear?

May this music bring a sense of calm to your soul. May it bring an awareness of what your body is speaking to you, and what the still, small voice of God is whispering to you as well.

Grace and Peace,

Fred McKinnon, Pianist/Composer

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“Without Words” – Instrumental Music for Prayer, Meditation, Soaking Worship, Mindfulness, and Relaxation

Today was my first day in the studio in about two weeks. Last week I was out of town for some much-needed vacation time with my family. We went down to Disney World and enjoyed a few days of fun. We returned back to St. Simons Island in the middle of the week and then my wife and I left for a few days without the kids to celebrate our 22nd wedding anniversary.

Those few days away were wonderful for me. I was amazed at how quickly I was able to relax and disengage from the busyness of life. There is a pool at our resort that has this edge that overlooks a lower pool and then the ocean. I found myself propped over that wall … thinking, dreaming, praying, and just staring into the ocean. My other favorite spot was our 5th floor balcony where I enjoyed some wonderful moments.

I returned refreshed, recharged, and ready to tackle the last half of this crazy year. 2020 has been the most surreal year of practically anyone’s life. I cannot imagine another year like this.

As I sat down to record this morning, I wanted to utilize the tonic pad – the root and fifth (tonic) note of the scale, held and sustained throughout the improvisation. This tonic pad brings a sense of continuity. I wanted the piano improvisations to be sparse, spacious, and free to roam. It felt so deeply wonderful to my soul to play from my heart. When I record, I often find myself praying or thinking about you, the listener, and what you may be facing. I always pray and believe that the Spirit of Peace will be carried on the sound of the music I’m creating and that by playing it in my home studio, it somehow transcends into your lives.

At some point, I found myself singing along with the melodies that came forth – just simple syllables, no words – just syllables. It was at that point that I thought I’d call this interlude “Without Words”.

This interlude is 9:30 long – it’s a peaceful, refreshing respite from everything that is crazy in our world right now. I hope that it blesses you as you listen.

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“Fire by Night” – Piano Instrumental Music by Fred McKinnon

Today’s piano interlude is called “Fire by Night”. Improvised in the key of Em, I wanted to create a certain bit of tension because I was feeling it inside. There were a few things that happened last night that just deposited some tension in my soul. None of them were significant or serious – they were, by some degree, quite petty. Let me explain.

If you happen to know me personally or follow my personal social media accounts, you would know that I’m a die hard Atlanta Braves fan. I’ve loved the Atlanta Braves baseball team since I was a little kid. I am the first to admit that I waste entirely too many hours watching these 2-3 hour long games almost every time they play. But I love them. They are my team. Last night our ace pitcher, Mike Soroka, suffered a terrible season ending injury. It was just awful watching him fall to the ground and scream in pain. In the grand scheme of things, losing your best pitcher in a baseball game is does not impact eternity. Yet, it still made my heart heavy.

I went to bed and struggled to fall asleep. Then, after falling asleep, I was quickly awakened when my cell phone went off sometime after 10:30 PM. I usually go to bed between 9-9:30 as I typically wake up around 5:00 am every day. My phone is set to “Do Not Disturb” at night but I have a few people whose calls will always come through – including my children. My oldest son who just returned to college was calling me. It startled me and my first thought was “what’s wrong”. Well, nothing was wrong. He’s back in college and wasn’t really thinking about the time and was just calling to let us know about a friend who would be coming down to stay with us. No problem.

I think I eased back to sleep only to be awakened by a terrific thunderstorm outside. The thunder and lightning were fierce and my first thought was that our precious golden retriever, Sadie, was outside for the night. I got out of bed and went out into the living room to go to the back door and get her inside. She was already there, wagging her tail in her spot – a leather loveseat. My wife was still awake and had let her in.

After this I just couldn’t sleep. At this point it was well past midnight and the thought of waking up at 5:00 AM to attend my workout session wasn’t very appealing. I turned off the alarm, took some medicine to help me sleep, and finally dozed off.

When I woke up this morning, I still felt yuck. I had my devotion and said a quick prayer, but still felt a bit tense. So, I decided to record this interlude. It captures the feelings I was experiencing and now, as I listen back, it pushes me into a place of prayer, intercession, and pressing through to find peace.

Isn’t it amazing how petty, insignificant things like being woken up or a sports team loss can get us out of sorts? Our souls can be easily stirred into a pit of dark, anxious, or stressed feelings. Fatigue in our bodies will do the same thing. Yet, we have so many ways to pull ourselves out of this place of “yuck” and find life!

My hope is that you will use this interlude as a means to identify anything in your soul that is struggling, and release it. Pray, confess, and surrender. Then, look to the future. Meditate and ponder all of the amazing things you are thankful for and express gratitude.

Peace and grace to you all. Thank you for listening.

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“Still Waters” – Solo Piano Instrumental Improvisation Background Music

The past two mornings here on Saint Simons Island, Georgia have been stunning. Some days the sunrises are more spectacular than usual and this week they have not been a disappointment. I was driving home yesterday morning after my workout and had to pull off the side of the road to enjoy the incredible scene in the sky over our airport. Numerous friends posted their sunrise and sunset pictures on social media.

When you combine the beauty of a sunrise or sunset with the water it’s beyond breathtaking. Earlier today I saw a picture from one of my friends on social media. He quoted “He leadeth me beside still waters” in the caption. I instantly knew that was the vibe I wanted to feel as I spontaneously composed today’s interlude.

In all of life’s hectic pace, busyness, and chaos – it’s so important to find the still waters. You may not be in a location surrounded by water like I am but it can be a metaphor. What is “still waters” for you? Maybe it’s that special chair, early in the morning, with your coffee. Perhaps it’s that morning walk. I hope that you can find a source of still water in your life.

May this music be a blessing to you as you listen today.

I’m forever grateful for your support and the privilege of providing this music for your personal times of prayer, devotion, meditation, soaking worship, relaxation, or easy listening.

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Humility – Piano Instrumental Improvisation Background Music

This morning I was reflecting on the attribute of humility. Scripture tells us that “God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble”. (James 4:6). I’m not sure what you may believe about God. But for me, although I realize God is loving, I certainly do not wish to be on the receiving end of God’s opposition.

Humility is a way of admitting that we are in need. Humility is a way of lowering oneself so that another can be lifted up. I was stirred recently while reading a book by the author Francis Chan. He was talking about prayer and how badly we needed to be praying. He said that when we fail to pray, we are essentially lacking humility and operating in pride because our lack of prayer suggests we have it figured out.

What a convicting message! I’ve often found myself in auto-pilot mode and my prayers had no life. This morning I decided to change up my routine and take some extra time to pray. I didn’t have a long list of requests – I simply asked for God to give me grace as I humbled myself. I prayed for forgiveness for the pride in my heart and the many ways that I live my life in such a way that suggests to God that I don’t need Him in my life. Finally, I prayed for eyes to see myself the way that God sees me.

What are you praying for today? I hope that you will also embrace humility.

Finally, do you need rest? As I completed this song this morning I put on my headphones and played it back. Wouldn’t you know, I fell asleep. In such a short time, I was sleeping. I’ve often said that I find it to be a compliment if you fall asleep listening to my music.

May the peace of God and His great grace rest upon you as you listen today.

Listen to “Humility” Piano Instrumental Interlude by Fred McKinnon

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“Mindful Moments, Op. 3” – Short Piano Instrumentals

Today’s new composition is the third installment (opus) of my “Mindful Moments” series. These are piano instrumental improvisations which are shorter in duration. Typically they are under five minutes and are created for pauses in the midst of our busy, chaotic lives to slow down and pray, meditate, breathe, relax, or practice mindfulness techniques.

This improvisation was recorded in the key of D minor. It has a haunting, slow, lingering melody. As you listen, enjoy the space and opportunities to breathe and relax without distraction. If you are a person who listens to these interludes as a soundtrack during prayer or meditation, take the opportunities to listen for the still, small voice leading and guiding you.

I hope that this music blesses you tremendously and that it will bring peace, tranquility, and ease into your soul.

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“Hope Rising” – Solo Piano Instrumental Improvisation by Fred McKinnon

Today’s interlude is called “Hope Rising”. I’m recording and releasing this piano improvisation as episode #232 of my “Worship Interludes Podcast” on July 1, 2020. We’ve just completed the first half of 2020. To say that the first half of 2020 has been tumultuous would be an understatement. I was speaking to my father last week on his 83rd birthday. He told me that he’d never witnessed or seen anything like what we are seeing in the world today. There is so much fear, panic, division, strife, and unrest.

Hope is a powerful force. The Bible references hope as of three powerful forces that remain with us. “So now faith, hope, and love abide, these three; but the greatest of these is love.” (1 Corinthians 13:13)

My prayer is that this music will give you a peaceful moment to reflect and hope …

Hope for peace.Hope for health.Hope for life and joy.

With that hope, pray and ask how you can take action to make a difference.

The biggest way that we can make this difference is by spreading faith, hope, and love to those around us. Choose a positive, affirming word to share. Find a way to bring kindness to someone who is struggling. For every negative thought or concern, seek to replace it with a positive, uplifting one.

Thank you for listening and supporting my music!

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“Mercy” – Solo Piano Improvisation

Today’s interlude is called “Mercy”. It’s a contemplative, slow piece in A-minor. I was reminded this morning during my devotion time of God’s mercy and love. I’m grateful that He is merciful.

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