Chord Distribution Analysis

Chord SymbolCountFrequency
Cm7426.7%
Bbmaj7213.3%
Dm716.7%
C#0716.7%
D0716.7%
F7#916.7%
Ebmaj716.7%
D7#1116.7%

Key Patterns Detected

PatternFunctionFrequency
Cm7 -> F7#9Setup (Major Key)1
F7#9 -> Bbmaj7Resolution (Major)1
G7b9 -> Cm7Resolution (Minor)1
Cm7 -> F7Setup (Major Key)1

Harmonic Highlights:

  • The progression utilizes a diatonic stepwise ascent (I–ii–iii) punctuated by a chromatic C#o7 passing chord, facilitating smooth voice-leading back to the ii-V-I cycle.
  • The Ab9 acts as a tritone substitution (subV/V) or a Neapolitan-style bII, creating a sophisticated chromatic descent toward the G7b9 dominant chord.
  • Frequent altered extensions (F7#9, D7#11, G7b9) highlight Kern’s signature integration of melodic minor textures within a G minor/Bb major tonal center.
  1. Improvisation Focus: G Harmonic Minor scale targeting dominant-to-tonic resolutions.

  2. Difficulty Rating: 3/5. The piece requires navigating several chromatic passing chords and altered dominants while maintaining the lyrical phrasing inherent to the G minor tonality.


📚 Standard Available in:

The Real Book - Volume III
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