Waxahachie, Texas – February 17, 2017 – Renowned musical performer and songwriter Elizabeth Goodine recently spoke at Southwestern Assemblies of God University (SAGU) regarding a teaching method presented in her new book, “ Simplifying Chords: A Textbook For the Classroom and a Reference For the Road .”
In the book, Goodine shares an effective way to learn and teach chords at the piano. This unique approach can benefit those who have a background in music theory as well as beginners. “The book can help provide an important foundation for musicians in any genre,” Goodine says. “Playing in or leading a band, doing studio work, arranging, orchestrating, composing and teaching music all demand fluency in the language of chords. This book can help toward that end.”
Elizabeth and her husband, Wayne, who earned a Master of Music in Conducting from Mississippi College, taught music in Bible college settings for many years. In an annual music conference they hosted, she began to teach a workshop called “Simplifying Chords,” which included a stapled “handout” by the same name. She continued to develop the material, eventually printing it as a small, spiral-bound book to use for her piano and ear-training students.
During these years, the Goodines observed a need in their music students, as well as a need in the market, for supplemental material regarding chords. “Some students who had been through in-depth music theory courses struggled with applying their knowledge in a practical way.” Wayne Goodine said. Perhaps they had once learned to write an augmented eleventh chord, for example, on a staff in a music theory class, but could not readily play or use the chord.
That observation prompted Elizabeth to begin revising and expanding her method. Nine years later, her book was released. “This approach has been tried and proven with students through the years, and I am excited that it is now available to a broader audience, ” Wayne Goodine said.
Born into a family that made music a priority, Elizabeth received private piano training for fourteen years followed by music courses in universities. She graduated with a bachelor’s degree in Professional Development from SAGU in 2010. “My experience here was wonder 
ful,” Elizabeth Goodine says. “I still refer to my notes, especially from my Theology of Worship class.”
Wayne and Elizabeth are passionate about inspiring and equipping the next generation to follow the call of God on their lives. They currently conduct music workshops and lead worship globally. Their songs have been recorded by groups such as the Gaither Vocal Band, the Brooklyn Tabernacle Choir, Nashville Christ Church and many others.
Simplifying Chords is available through [email protected] .
The Goodines have also recorded two albums which are available on iTunes. To access the “I Bless Your Name” project, click here . To access the “I Will Give You Glory” project, click here .
About SAGU:
Southwestern Assemblies of God University is a private, Christian university located 30 minutes south of the Dallas/Fort Worth Metroplex in Waxahachie, Texas. The university was established in 1927, and now offers more than 70 associate, bachelor’s, master’s and doctoral degrees on campus or online. More information is available at www.sagu.edu or by calling 1-888-YES-SAGU.
