Chord Distribution Analysis

Chord SymbolCountFrequency
Emaj768.7%
F#7#1168.7%
F#m768.7%
B757.2%
F#757.2%
C#7b945.8%
Fmaj745.8%
G#m7b534.3%

Key Patterns Detected

PatternFunctionFrequency
F#m7 -> B7Setup (Major Key)3
G#m7b5 -> C#7b9Setup (Minor Key)3
C#7b9 -> F#m7Resolution (Minor)2
A#m7 -> D#7Setup (Major Key)2
C#m7 -> F#7Setup (Major Key)2
G#7b9 -> C#m7Resolution (Minor)1
D#7#9 -> G#maj7Resolution (Major)1
D#7 -> G#maj7Resolution (Major)1
B7b9 -> Emaj7Resolution (Major)1
F#m -> B7Setup (Major Key)1

Harmonic Highlights:

  • Prominent tonicization of the bIII major (Emaj7) via its ii-V (F#m7-B7), establishing a brighter, temporary tonal center.
  • Frequent deployment of secondary dominants and ii-V progressions (e.g., G#m7b5-C#7b9 to F#m7) constantly shifts temporary tonics.
  • The F#7#11 chord functions as a Lydian dominant (IV7#11), adding a sophisticated, bright dominant color.
  • A sudden chromatic shift to Fmaj7 creates a distant, non-diatonic harmonic surprise, characteristic of Jobim’s unique voice leading.

Improvisation Focus: Altered scales for dominant function.

Difficulty Rating: 4 (Advanced Intermediate). Requires a strong grasp of secondary dominants, altered chords, and navigating rapid, often distant, harmonic changes.