Harmonic Techniques to Create Moving Chord Progressions using Three Note Voicings - Part 2

by Michael Pettersen (January 2002)

For the second lesson on moving chord progressions, I have notated 32 bars of the standard "As Time Goes By" in Eb. As in the first lesson, based on "I Got Rhythm", all chords forms are on strings 6, 4, and 3; or strings 5, 4, and 3. Each of these chord forms can be found in the playing of Freddie Green.

Try your own analysis of "As Time Goes By" by referring to the seventeen chord progression techniques listed in the "I Got Rhythm" lesson.

Suggestions on creating moving chord progressions:

Trust your ear. If the moving progression sounds right, use it.
Chords closely related to the original chord progression are typically placed on beats 1 and 3.
Connecting or movement chords are typically placed on beats 2 and 4.
The diminished voicing is the most versatile connecting chord.
The bass line on the 6th string should move logically and make musical sense.

About the Author:
Michael Pettersen has a BA in Music from the University of Illinois. He has played guitar in big bands since 1970. Currently he is associated with several big bands in the Chicago area. Click here to e-mail your comments about this article .