Basic Harmonization

  • strip the chord progression down to its essentials
  • we will build it back up using jazz language
  • try to do this all by ear, playing melody and roots only
  • focus on I and V mostly, using IV or other chords only where I or V just won't do
  • assume root position, except I64 to precede V is OK
  • change chords only at "inflection points" where the phrase seems to demand it
  • it's normal that the melody may contain non-chord tones
  • be sure to recognize any temporary key changes


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