Navigating Chord Progressions

Theory pro Tom Regis reveals some of the most common but most important chord progressions and how to train your ear to instantly recognize them, so you can better understand their structure and apply them to your own compositions!

Videos
Introduction (06:25) - Tom welcomes you and outlines the format of the series. He then presents the four foundational principals when learning to navigate chord sequences, and of course, the importance of using the ear!
The Basic Progressions (11:20) - Tom now explores the most common chord progressions starting with the I, IV and V chords, and then examines the minor chords, seventh chords, and the chord sequences derived from these chords.
Examining a Bit of Chopin (10:25) - Tom reveals how the simple concepts outlined in Basic Progressions can apply to a seemingly more advanced harmonic sequences as Chopin uses in his Nocturne Opus 9, No.2. Discretionary dominants, passing tones, and the commonly used sound of the IV chord moving from major to minor are further explored.
Applications to Jazz Chord Progressions (14:33) - Moving on, Tom expands the lessons into the language of Jazz and presents familiar chord progressions that are often used within Jazz Standards. Tom also provides examples of more advanced chords and sounds that can be put on an alternative "list", allowing the student to have a wider musical vocabulary.
A Must Know for Rockers (01:42) - Wrapping it up, Tom presents an example of a commonly used and simple rock progression that is a must know for all rockers, folksters, and hopefully, jazzers as well. From James Taylor, to Leonard Skynnard, to the Rolling Stones, this progression has given life to lots of great songs and jams!