How to Reharmonize Songs (in 7 Levels)

Introduction

Reharmonizing songs is a powerful way to refresh familiar music and create new emotional experiences. In this tutorial, we will explore seven levels of reharmonization techniques, allowing you to transform existing songs into unique arrangements. This guide will help you understand the fundamental concepts and provide actionable steps to apply these techniques effectively.

Step 1: Understand Basic Harmony

• Familiarize yourself with basic chords and their relationships.
• Learn about the major and minor scales, as well as triads.
• Understand the concept of chord progressions and how they function within a song.

Step 2: Identify the Original Chord Progression

• Listen to the song you want to reharmonize.
• Write down the original chord progression.
• Analyze how these chords interact with the melody.

Step 3: Experiment with Substitutions

• Start substituting chords in the original progression with:
  • Relative minors or majors
  • Diminished and augmented chords
• Common substitutions include:
  • Replacing a major chord with its relative minor.
  • Using the ii-V-I progression in jazz reharmonization.

Step 4: Add Extensions and Alterations

• Introduce chord extensions like 7ths, 9ths, and 13ths to enrich the harmony.
• Alter existing chords by raising or lowering specific notes.
• For example, add a 7th to a major chord:

  C major: C - E - G 
  Cmaj7: C - E - G - B
  

Step 5: Utilize Modal Interchange

• Borrow chords from parallel modes to create unexpected harmonies.
• For example, if working in C major, you might borrow chords from C minor.
• This technique can add depth and complexity to your reharmonization.

Step 6: Explore Non-Diatonic Chords

• Introduce chords that are outside the original key.
• Experiment with chromatic mediants or secondary dominants.
• Example of a secondary dominant:
  • In the key of C, use D7 to resolve to G.

Step 7: Create a New Arrangement

• Once you have a variety of reharmonizations, start arranging them.
• Consider how these new chords affect the song's melody and overall feel.
• Experiment with different rhythms, dynamics, and instrumentation.

Conclusion

Reharmonizing songs can significantly enhance your musical creativity. By following these steps, you can transform existing music into fresh, engaging pieces. Remember to practice regularly and experiment with various techniques to develop your unique style. Consider sharing your reharmonizations with others for feedback and collaboration. Happy reharmonizing!