Approach To Jazz Harmony — An

: Chords may move by steps or thirds rather than jumping around the circle of fifths.

: Using a iii7 or a vi7 in place of a Imaj7 to add movement. An Approach to Jazz Harmony

Jazz harmony is a vast landscape that bridges the gap between traditional functional theory and modern modal exploration. To master it, one must move beyond seeing chords as static blocks and begin viewing them as fluid, interchangeable colors. 1. The Core: Functional Foundations : Chords may move by steps or thirds

: The 3rd and 7th of any chord define its quality. Focusing on how these two notes move from one chord to the next ensures a smooth harmonic "flow." 2. Expanding the Palette: Extensions and Alterations To master it, one must move beyond seeing

: Playing a simple triad (like D major) over a different bass note (like C) to achieve complex jazz tensions easily.

: Instead of thinking "this is a C Major chord," think "this is a C Ionian sound." The scale and the chord become one entity.

: Dominant chords are often "seasoned" with b9, #9, #11, or b13. These create maximum dissonance that makes the eventual resolution feel more satisfying.