Chord Distribution Analysis
| Chord Symbol | Count | Frequency |
|---|---|---|
| Em7 | 9 | 16.7% |
| F#m7b5 | 6 | 11.1% |
| B7b9 | 6 | 11.1% |
| A7 | 6 | 11.1% |
| Am7 | 5 | 9.3% |
| D7 | 5 | 9.3% |
| Cmaj7 | 3 | 5.6% |
| Bm7 | 3 | 5.6% |
Key Patterns Detected
| Pattern | Function | Frequency |
|---|---|---|
| F#m7b5 -> B7b9 | Setup (Minor Key) | 6 |
| B7b9 -> Em7 | Resolution (Minor) | 5 |
| Em7 -> A7 | Setup (Major Key) | 5 |
| Am7 -> D7 | Setup (Major Key) | 4 |
| B7b9 -> F#m7b5 | Resolution (Minor) | 1 |
| Dm7 -> A7 | Setup (Major Key) | 1 |
| D7 -> Gmaj7 | Resolution (Major) | 1 |
| Gm7 -> D7 | Setup (Major Key) | 1 |
| Cm7 -> F7 | Setup (Major Key) | 1 |
| Bm7 -> E7 | Setup (Major Key) | 1 |
| E7 -> Am7 | Resolution (Minor) | 1 |
Harmonic Highlights
- Recurring minor ii-V-i progressions (F#m7b5–B7b9–Em7) establish a strong E minor tonal center while defining the standard’s somber character.
- The movement from Em7 to A7 introduces a Dorian modal quality or serves as a secondary dominant, requiring careful navigation of the C# vs. C natural tension.
- The bridge modulates to the relative major (G major) using Am7–D7 sequences, providing a functional tonal lift from the primary minor-key tension.
- Stepwise descending bass lines (Em7–Em7/D–Cmaj7) facilitate smooth harmonic transitions through the diatonic E minor scale.
Improvisation Focus
The E Melodic Minor Scale is the most effective tool for navigating the tonic minor chords and providing the necessary tensions for the altered dominants.
Difficulty Rating
3/5. Navigating the constant shifts between E minor and G major centers while managing minor-key alterations requires intermediate harmonic proficiency.
📚 Standard Available in:
The Real Book - Volume III
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