'Andrea's Piece' for Solo Vibraphone was composed in April 2025 by Franz Bauer.
Rhythm Changes Harmonic Vocabulary – Part 3: Exploring Further Harmonic Detail
In this third installment of our rhythm changes harmonic vocabulary series, we continue to deepen our approach to both harmony and rhythm within the first A section. This lesson blends familiar elements with new twists, helping you refine your sense of phrasing while introducing a few sophisticated harmonic choices.
Rhythmic Overview
Great set with Red Norvo. Check out how far he chokes up on the mallets!
Part 2: Exploring Articulation and Harmonic Detail
In this second lesson on rhythm changes harmonic vocabulary, we shift our focus to articulation and rhythmic variety within the first A section. The exercise begins by introducing the classic Charleston rhythm in the first four measures—a foundational comping figure that adds a strong sense of groove and forward momentum.
I know this is up on the site, but why not put it up again since it's Mainieri!!
He's playing solo 3 days after 9/11 because the rest of his band couldn't fly. Good for us!
This vid is very cool.
This CD is a true work of art. Mike with all his experience behind him, plays the most beautiful solos and chords ever. For me in a way he is the absolute greatest vibraphone play ever.
Here are some other reasons to listen.
Rhythm Changes - Harmonic Vocabulary on the A Pt. 1
In this series, we’ll explore harmonic vocabulary for comping over the A sections of rhythm changes. In Pt. 1, we start with a common and widely used set of standard changes, providing a strong foundation for comping.
One key concept in this approach is treating the top note of each chord as a melodic line—essentially harmonizing a simple, stepwise motion. This helps create a natural, connected flow between voicings rather than thinking of each chord in isolation.
In this section, we continue with the F#7–B7–E7–A7–D7–G7–C7–F7 progression in measures 1-4, but with a simplified rhythmic approach. Rather than relying on continuous eighth-note lines, this version demonstrates how to outline the changes effectively with more space and varied rhythmic phrasing.
So.....
Someone (not me) submitted this recording of David and I playing at PASIC in 2018 as a favorite cd (but it's not a CD). While it's not a traditional CD, it's a full-length performance, and I'm featured on it. I initially felt a bit awkward highlighting my own work, but I believe there's a valuable learning opportunity here.
Continuing our exploration of rhythm changes, this lesson focuses on another set of substitute chord changes for the A section. While the general framework remains the same, this version features a different set of passing dominant chords, adding more forward motion to the progression. The focus here is the first A section, which you can tell by the turnaround in the last two measures.