Chord Progressions

Understanding Chord Progressions

Chord progressions are sequences of chords that form the harmonic foundation of music. They create movement, tension, and resolution in a piece.

Common Progressions

ii-V-I Progression

The most common jazz progression, also found in many other styles

Dm7:

𝄞D4F4A4C5

G7:

𝄞G4B4D5F5

Cmaj7:

𝄞C4E4G4B4

Try it on the piano:

C4
C#4
D4
D#4
E4
F4
F#4
G4
G#4
A4
A#4
B4
C5
C#5
D5
D#5
E5
F5
F#5
G5
G#5
A5
A#5
B5
C6

Interactive Practice

Which chord progression is commonly known as the "jazz cadence"?

𝄞D4G4C4

Which progression is the foundation of many pop and rock songs?

𝄞C4F4G4

Daily Practice

Master chord progressions with these exercises:

  • Play common progressions in different keys
  • Listen for these progressions in familiar songs
  • Practice voice leading between chords
  • Create your own variations of these progressions