If you’re a guitarist looking to add some fresh flavor to a familiar chord progression, reharmonization is a fantastic tool to have in your arsenal. It’s the process of changing the chords in a standard progression while maintaining the melody or overall structure of the song. This technique is often used in jazz, pop, and even rock to create a unique twist on classic tunes. Let’s break down how you can reharmonize a standard progression on guitar with a few practical steps.
Understand the Original Progression
Before you start messing with chords, make sure you know the original progression inside and out. A common standard like the I-IV-V-I (e.g., C-F-G-C in the key of C major) or a ii-V-I (Dm-G-C) often serves as the foundation for many songs. Play through it on your guitar and listen to how each chord resolves. Identify the key, the function of each chord (tonic, dominant, etc.), and where the melody sits over the harmony. This gives you a roadmap for substitution.
Experiment with Chord Substitutions
Reharmonization often involves swapping out chords for others that serve a similar harmonic purpose. Here are a few ideas you can try on guitar:
- Minor for Major (or Vice Versa): Replace a major chord with its relative minor (e.g., swap C major for Am) to add a melancholic vibe. This works well if the melody note fits the new chord.
- Secondary Dominants: Add tension by inserting a dominant 7th chord that resolves to the next chord in the progression. For example, in a C-F-G-C progression, add a D7 before the G to create a stronger pull (C-F-D7-G-C).
- Modal Interchange: Borrow chords from a parallel key or mode. In C major, you might borrow a Bb or Eb chord from C minor to give a darker, unexpected sound.
Add Extensions or Alterations
Another way to reharmonize is by altering the quality of the chords themselves. On guitar, this is as simple as adding a 7th, 9th, or other extensions to a basic triad. For instance, turn a plain G major into a G7 or Gmaj7 to add color. You can also experiment with slash chords (like G/B) to change the bass note and create a smoother transition between chords. These small tweaks can drastically change the mood of a progression without straying too far from the original.
Listen to the Melody
The melody is your anchor when reharmonizing. As you experiment on guitar, always play or hum the melody over your new chords to ensure it still fits. If a substituted chord clashes with the melody, tweak it or try a different voicing. The goal is to enhance the song, not overpower it. Record yourself playing the progression to hear how the changes blend over time.
Practice with a Familiar Tune
To get comfortable, pick a standard song you know well, like a blues progression or a pop classic. Start with small changes—maybe swap one chord or add a 7th—and build from there. Over time, you’ll develop an ear for what works. Jazz standards like “Autumn Leaves” or “All of Me” are great for practice since they already have flexible harmonic structures.
Reharmonization on guitar is all about creativity within boundaries. By understanding the original progression, experimenting with substitutions, and staying true to the melody, you can breathe new life into any standard tune. Grab your guitar, try these tips, and let your ears be your guide!
