Jazz chord progressions

Definition

Jazz chord progressions are sequences of chords that serve as the harmonic foundation for jazz compositions and improvisations. These progressions often incorporate extended harmonies, such as 7ths, 9ths, 11ths, and 13ths, allowing for rich tonal colors and complex structures that contribute to the distinctive sound of jazz music.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Jazz chord progressions often deviate from traditional classical harmony by introducing altered chords and non-diatonic tones.
2. Common progressions in jazz can be cyclical, leading musicians to improvise over repeated sequences like the 12-bar blues or rhythm changes.
3. Jazz musicians frequently use substitutions to create variations on standard chord progressions, enhancing creativity during performance.
4. The ii-V-I progression is not only foundational in jazz but also appears in many other genres, showcasing its versatility and importance.
5. Jazz chord progressions can evoke different emotions depending on their structure, allowing composers and performers to convey a wide range of feelings.

Review Questions

• How do jazz chord progressions differ from traditional classical chord progressions in terms of structure and complexity?
  • Jazz chord progressions often incorporate more complex structures than traditional classical ones. While classical music generally adheres to straightforward triadic harmonies, jazz introduces extended chords and altered tensions that create richer textures. These progressions frequently allow for modal interchange and substitutions, which adds further depth and variety to the harmonic landscape.
• Discuss the role of the ii-V-I progression in jazz music and why it is significant for improvisation.
  • The ii-V-I progression plays a critical role in jazz as it establishes a strong sense of resolution and tension that improvisers can navigate. This common sequence allows musicians to create exciting improvisational lines over predictable changes while also providing opportunities for creative elaboration through extensions or substitutions. Its significance lies in its ability to provide a familiar framework that supports both structured performance and spontaneous creativity.
• Evaluate the impact of extended chords on jazz chord progressions and their contribution to the genre's distinct sound.
  • Extended chords fundamentally transform jazz chord progressions by adding layers of complexity and emotional depth. The inclusion of 7ths, 9ths, 11ths, and 13ths contributes to a lush harmonic palette that sets jazz apart from other musical styles. This richness allows for nuanced expressions in improvisation and composition, enabling musicians to convey intricate emotions and explore innovative harmonic ideas while maintaining a connection to traditional tonalities.

Related terms

ii-V-I progression: A common chord progression in jazz that involves the supertonic (ii), dominant (V), and tonic (I) chords, often used to create tension and resolution.

modal interchange:

The practice of borrowing chords from parallel modes to enrich a chord progression, creating unique harmonic colors often found in jazz.

extended chords: Chords that include additional tones beyond the basic triad, such as 7ths, 9ths, 11ths, and 13ths, which add complexity and depth to jazz harmony.