BookatlasPiano Rabbit Hole: Improvisation Theory & Practice
9623 / 18210 · Workshop 79 — Harmonic Density vs. Melodic Freedom: How Much Harmony Is Enough, When to Leave Space, and How to Avoid “Over-Explaining” Every Note← prev⊞ allnext →

79.54The burden of proof belongs to the extra chord

Do not assume every chord deserves to stay because it is theoretically valid.

An added chord should contribute:

  • bass motion
  • voice leading
  • tension
  • color
  • form
  • style
  • rhythmic energy

Otherwise it is clutter.