Chord Distribution Analysis

Chord SymbolCountFrequency
Abmaj7410.8%
Fm7410.8%
Bb7410.8%
Ebmaj725.4%
Eb725.4%
Ab0725.4%
Ebmaj7/G25.4%
Gb0725.4%

Key Patterns Detected

PatternFunctionFrequency
Eb7 -> Abmaj7Resolution (Major)2
Ab07 -> Ebmaj7/GResolution (Major)2
Fm7 -> Bb7Setup (Major Key)2
Am7b5 -> D7b9Setup (Minor Key)1
C7 -> Fm7Resolution (Minor)1
Bb7 -> Ebmaj7Resolution (Major)1

Harmonic Highlights:

  • Frequent use of the I7 (Eb7) to IVmaj7 (Abmaj7) movement, functioning as a “backdoor dominant” to the subdominant, a signature Gershwin characteristic.
  • Prominent deployment of diminished chords (Ab07, Gb07, E07) as dominant substitutes or passing chords, injecting tension and chromaticism.
  • Temporary modulations or extended dominant harmony through ii-V-I sequences (e.g., Am7b5-D7b9-G7b13-C7), navigating different tonal centers.
  • The minor iv chord (Abm6) creates a distinctive melancholic color before resolving to the tonic or tonic-like harmony (Eb6/G).

Improvisation Focus: Melodic Minor Scale.

Difficulty Rating: 4 (Advanced Intermediate). Requires navigating numerous diminished passing chords, altered dominant voicings, and brief modulations beyond basic diatonic harmony.