Tory Kelly’s “All I Want for Christmas” Reharmonization Tutorial

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Tutorial Overview: We’re going to analyze the reharmonization I did with Tory Kelly’s “All I Want for Christmas.” Keep in mind that this is an advanced version, tailored specifically to Kelly’s performance in the key of F. For practice, a MIDI file of this solo version is available for download (link in the description).

Chord Breakdown:

1. Major 7 and Chromatic Movements: We start with a simple major 7 chord and move chromatically to add color outside the key, creating an advanced chord sound.
2. Tritone Substitution and Passing Chords: Innovative use of tritone substitution and passing chords adds a unique twist to the progression, ensuring that each chord aligns with the melody.
3. Harmonizing Melody Notes: We experiment with harmonizing specific melody notes, using non-diatonic chords to create a distinct sound.
4. Descending Minor Chords: The use of descending minor chords and substitutions like F minor 11 and D augmented 9 enhances the harmonic texture.
5. Advanced Voicings and Inversions: We explore advanced voicings and inversions, such as E7 with sharp 9 and D#7 with sharp 9 and flat 13, ensuring that each chord flows seamlessly into the next.
6. Counter-Melodies and Harmony: Counter-melodies and descending harmony techniques are used to complement the vocal runs, adding depth to the arrangement.

Conclusion and Practice Tips: This reharmonization showcases the beauty of stepping outside traditional rules and using your ears to guide your chord choices. Remember, it’s about how the chords work together in context, not just in isolation. To really master these techniques, study the MIDI file, slow down the progressions, and experiment with incorporating these ideas into your own playing.

Invitation to Subscribe and Further Learning: Don’t forget to subscribe and hit the notification bell for more tutorials like this. If you’re interested in taking your playing further, check out my membership program at pianolistmwarren.com, where I help students learn piano by ear. Also, let me know in the comments if you’d like to see more reharmonization tutorials, especially for Christmas songs. Your feedback is invaluable!

Final Thoughts: I hope this tutorial helps you understand the creative process behind reharmonizing a classic like “All I Want for Christmas.” Music is about experimentation and personal expression, so take these concepts and make them your own. Happy playing!

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