Great Piano Chords. Voicing tricks for pro keyboard parts.

Great Piano Chords: Voicing Tricks for Pro Keyboard Parts

If you’re looking to add depth and character to your piano progressions, here’s a quick and effective way to do so. The process involves inverting chords, substituting some notes, and focusing on melodic transitions. Here’s a step-by-step breakdown:

Step 1: Initial Chord Progression

Start with a basic chord progression in root position:

G
D Minor
F
C

Step 2: Inverting Chords

Inverting chords can create smoother transitions between them. Here’s how you might adjust the progression:

Invert the G chord to transition better into D Minor.
Invert the F chord leading into C.

Step 3: Substituting Chord Notes

To add a distinctive quality, replace the third of each chord with a second:

Replace the third note in G, D Minor, F, and C with the second.

This modification contributes to a sound that many describe as having a Disney-like quality, reminiscent of composer Kevin Penkin’s style.

Step 4: Melodic Root Replacement

Make the progression more melodious by altering the roots:

Change the root of G to F (the third of D Minor).
Change the third of F (A) to G.

Step 5: Adding Thirds

Finally, add thirds underneath these newly adjusted notes to create a richer, fuller sound.

Final Result

You should now have a more dynamic and engaging piano part. This method may take a bit of practice, so feel free to revisit these steps to refine your technique. The effort invested will pay off with a more professional and active sound.

Keywords

Inverted Chords
Piano Progressions
Root Replacement
Melodic Transitions
Third Substitution
Chord Voicing
Kevin Penkin
Disney-like Music

FAQ

Q: What is an inverted chord? A: An inverted chord is when the notes of the chord are rearranged so that a note other than the root is the lowest note. This is done to achieve smoother transitions between chords.

Q: Why substitute the third with a second in chords? A: Replacing the third with a second can give the chord a more unique, often more modern or ethereal quality, which adds a distinct character to the music.

Q: How does altering the root to a more melodic note improve the progression? A: Altering the root to a more melodic note helps the progression flow more musically, making each chord transition sound more connected and harmonious.

Q: What effect does adding thirds below the altered notes have? A: Adding thirds below the modified notes enriches the chord, making it sound fuller and more complex. This technique enhances the overall sonic experience of the piece.

Q: Can these techniques be applied to other progressions? A: Absolutely! These voicing tricks can be adapted to virtually any chord progression to create a more captivating and polished sound.

Feel free to revisit these steps as needed to master these voicing techniques and transform your piano parts into something truly special.