Reharmonization Techniques Book

Posted on 2 May 2021

I've been jumping around between different music theory resources lately.

Today, I started reading Reharmonization Techniques by Randy Felts.

So far it's clear and directly to the point, which is what I'm looking for.

Here's the description:

Simple Substitution: substitute chords with others in the same harmonic family to vary tunes while maintaining their original color

Diatonic Approach: reharmonize with chords from a single key to create a harmonic change for most standard jazz and pop contexts

Adding Dominant and Subdominant Chords: use these chords, or their tritone substitutions, to create sophisticated harmonic sounds

Harmonic Displacement: relocate important cadential points in a phrase to create open space to fill with new chords

Modal Interchange: borrow chords from common minor keys to darken the harmonic color of phrases

Working with Bass Lines, Turnarounds, Extended Endings and Modulatory Interludes, Diminished Seventh Chords, Hybrid Chord Voidings, and other advanced patterns to give your music a unique sound