How to create a chord progression | Steps for beginners to develop naturally in 4 measures

A chord progression is a sequence of chords arranged in order to create a flow of time. Rather than using a lot of difficult code, it will flow more naturally if you are conscious of the roles of stability, development, tension, and resolution.

1｜Determine the key

If you use C major at first, you can check it using only the white keys. Easy-to-use chords are C, D minor, E minor, F, G, and A minor.

2｜Decide the beginning and end

Starting at C and returning to C, there is a steady progression. You don't have to start with C, but use it first to memorize the center by ear.

3｜Place development and tension in the middle

If you place F or D minor in the second measure and G in the third measure, the flow will be C→F→G→C. Check the sense of resolution in the part that returns from G to C.

4｜Start with one chord per measure

Place 4 chords in 4 measures, slow down the tempo, and listen to the resonance. Once you get used to it, you can change the rhythm, such as having two chords per measure or the same chord for two measures.

5｜Check the bass sound

If you play only the root of the chord in a low tone, it will be easier to understand the direction of progression. If the route jumps a lot, you can smooth it out with inversions and transition sounds.

6｜Leave a common sound

If adjacent chords have the same note, leaving the notes at the same pitch will smooth out the connection. You don't have to make every note move a lot every time.

7｜If it collides with the melody

Check if the chord contains a strong beat melody note. It may function as a passing note even if it is not included, but listen carefully to the relationship with the chord for long notes.

Learning famous progressions is not a bad thing. Even though the progression is the same, the songs can be different depending on the tempo, rhythm, melody, tone, and structure. First, complete 4 measures, then repeat and change one part at a time.