Chord Distribution Analysis

Chord SymbolCountFrequency
Dm315.8%
Em7b5315.8%
A7b9315.8%
Dm/maj7/C#15.3%
Dm7/C15.3%
Bm7b515.3%
E715.3%
A7#515.3%

Key Patterns Detected

PatternFunctionFrequency
Em7b5 -> A7b9Setup (Minor Key)3
A7b9 -> DmResolution (Minor)2
Bm7b5 -> E7Setup (Minor Key)1

Harmonic Highlights

  • Frequent minor ii-V-i progressions (Em7b5 – A7b9 – Dm) anchor the D minor tonality throughout the A sections.
  • A descending chromatic line clichΓ© (Dm – Dm/maj7/C# – Dm7/C – Bm7b5) creates smooth voice leading within the tonic minor chord.
  • The bridge employs a rapid circle of fifths sequence (D9 – G13 – C9 – F13 – Bbmaj7) that briefly tonicizes the relative major key area.

Improvisation Focus D Harmonic Minor scale (to accommodate the C# leading tone in minor ii-V-i resolutions).

Difficulty Rating 3/5 (Intermediate): The piece requires navigating both minor-key functional harmony and a modulating bridge that moves quickly through secondary dominants.


πŸ“š Standard Available in:

The Real Book - Volume I
πŸ›’ Buy on Amazon
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Check the Hal Leonard Jazz Song Finder to make sure that the standard is indeed in the book before buying it.