Two or more chords played
in succession make up a chord progression. An example is
shown here:
Cmaj7 - Amin7 - Fmaj7 - G7
This very popular jazz piano chord
progression has been used and heard over and over and over again, to
the point where someone can actually recognize it. Even if he or she
doesn't theoretically know what's going on when it's heard, the sound
is still familiar. For example, if you are familiar with rock and roll
music from the 1950's, you have likely heard the above chord
progression hundreds of times. A jazz pianist becomes familiar with
these "chord patterns," which is another good way of explaining what a
chord progression is. The above chord progression is known as a
I-VI-IV-V chord progression (chord progressions are usually identified
with Roman numerals).
The above chord progression is just one
of many, many, many more. A jazz pianist will not only recognize and
understand them but will also know how to handle them when it comes to
improvising melodies and creating those spicy jazz piano voicings that
so many piano players aspire to learn.
By the way, the art of recognizing chord
progressions is a major secret of playing piano by ear. And you will
be doing this much, much sooner than you think!
The jazz piano
programs suggested here
will put you on the right road to excellence in this area. Whether you
believe it now or not, you will be enjoying the luxury of confidence
described above before you know it.
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CHORD PROGRESSIONS 