Chord Distribution Analysis

Chord SymbolCountFrequency
Bbmaj7715.9%
Cm7715.9%
F7715.9%
B0749.1%
Ebmaj749.1%
Fm736.8%
Bb736.8%
C#0724.5%

Key Patterns Detected

PatternFunctionFrequency
Cm7 -> F7Setup (Major Key)4
F7 -> Bbmaj7Resolution (Major)4
Fm7 -> Bb7Setup (Major Key)3
C7b9 -> Fm7Resolution (Minor)2
Bb7 -> Ebmaj7Resolution (Major)2
Bb7b9 -> Ebmaj7Resolution (Major)1
Bbmaj7 -> F7Setup (Major Key)1

Harmonic Highlights

  • Employs chromatic diminished chords ($B^\circ 7$ and $C#^\circ 7$) as passing connectors to create smooth voice leading between the Imaj7, iim7, and I/3 chords.
  • Utilizes a “Rhythm Changes” variation in the A sections, substituting standard diatonic movements with chromatic neighbors to achieve Monk’s signature angular sound.
  • The B section modulates to the subdominant (Eb major) using standard ii-V cycles ($Fm7$ - $Bb7$), providing a stable tonal contrast to the chromaticism of the A sections.

Improvisation Focus

  • Bb Major Blues Scale emphasizing “crushed” grace notes (minor 3rd to major 3rd) to capture Monk’s idiosyncratic rhythmic and melodic language.

Difficulty Rating

  • 3/5: The underlying AABA structure is accessible, but navigating the chromatic passing chords and specific rhythmic displacements requires intermediate-level harmonic awareness and timing.