Part 3 - Harmonic Techniques to Create Moving Chord Progressions using Three Note Voicings

by Michael Pettersen (January 2004)

For the third lesson on moving chord progressions, I have notated "Sweet Lorraine", a 32 bar standard in C. As in the first and second lessons, 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.

Analyze "Sweet Lorraine" 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 should move logically and make musical sense.