Chord Distribution Analysis
| Chord Symbol | Count | Frequency |
|---|---|---|
| Ab7 | 3 | 13.0% |
| Db07 | 3 | 13.0% |
| Db6 | 3 | 13.0% |
| Fm7b5 | 2 | 8.7% |
| Bb7b9 | 2 | 8.7% |
| Ebm7 | 2 | 8.7% |
| Fmaj7 | 2 | 8.7% |
| Dbmaj7 | 1 | 4.3% |
Key Patterns Detected
| Pattern | Function | Frequency |
|---|---|---|
| Fm7b5 -> Bb7b9 | Setup (Minor Key) | 2 |
| Bb7b9 -> Ebm7 | Resolution (Minor) | 2 |
| Ebm7 -> Ab7 | Setup (Major Key) | 2 |
| Gm7b5 -> C7b13 | Setup (Minor Key) | 1 |
| C7b13 -> Fmaj7 | Resolution (Major) | 1 |
| Abm7b5 -> Db7b13 | Setup (Minor Key) | 1 |
| Db7b13 -> Gbm | Resolution (Minor) | 1 |
Harmonic Highlights
- The progression opens with a ii-V of ii (Fm7b5–Bb7b9 leading to Ebm7), immediately establishing a sophisticated secondary dominant relationship that sidesteps the tonic.
- A brief but significant modulation to F major (the mediant) occurs via a Gm7b5–C7 sequence, showcasing Strayhorn’s signature use of chromatic “side-slipping” and distant tonal centers.
- The integration of the minor subdominant (Gbm) and diminished passing chords (Db°7) provides a dense, Ellingtonian texture that favors smooth voice leading over standard functional cycles.
Improvisation Focus Chord-tone targeting and the Altered Scale to navigate the frequent secondary dominants and chromatic transitions.
Difficulty Rating 4/5; the rapid harmonic rhythm and frequent modulations to non-diatonic keys require advanced theoretical knowledge and precise melodic mapping.