Someday My Prince Will Come

Summary

Introduction to “Someday My Prince Will Come”

“Someday My Prince Will Come” is a beloved jazz standard, famously performed by legends like Miles Davis and Chet Baker. This course delves into the harmonic structure, melodic analysis, and improvisation techniques that will help musicians deepen their understanding and mastery of this classic tune. Whether you’re a beginner or advanced player, these insights and exercises will elevate your jazz skills.

Understanding the Form and Structure

The ABAC Song Form

One of the first steps in mastering the tune is to grasp its form. The song follows an ABAC format, consisting of four eight-bar sections. While some may interpret the form differently, thinking of it as ABAC helps break down the melody and harmony into manageable sections, making memorization easier.

• Section A: The main theme introduced in the first eight bars.
• Section B: A contrasting eight-bar section.
• Section A (repeated): Returns to the original theme.
• Section C: A contrasting bridge leading back to A.

Importance of Smaller Units

Focusing on eight-bar sections rather than larger 16-bar chunks enables players to internalize the tune’s nuances and prepare for improvisation more effectively.

Harmonic Analysis and Chord Progressions

Key and Tonal Center

The song is primarily in B-flat major, but it includes many interesting chord substitutions and extensions that add color and complexity.

Dominant Chords with Altered Tensions

• The D7 and G7 chords are dominant sevenths with a flat 13th, not augmented chords.
• These altered dominants introduce tension and resolve in unexpected ways, enriching the harmonic palette.

Diminished Passing Chords

• The tune features diminished seventh passing chords (e.g., D-flat diminished), which create chromatic movement and smooth transitions between chords.
• These chords often follow a chromatic half-step motion and imply specific scales like diminished  scales.

Secondary Dominants and Deceptive Cadences

• Several chords act as secondary dominants (e.g., G7 as V7/ii), resolving to chords other than the tonic.
• Deceptive cadences occur, such as F7 resolving to D minor 7 instead of B-flat major, adding harmonic interest.

Characteristic Harmonic Motions

• The progression features notable thirds relationships (e.g., B-flat to D7, then E-flat to G7), which impart a unique harmonic color reminiscent of other jazz standards like “All of Me”.
• Understanding and memorizing these motions enhances improvisational fluency.

Melodic Analysis

Scale Degrees and Motives

• The melody is analyzed using solfège syllables (do, re, mi, so, etc.) to relate notes to the tonic and chords.
• It features repetitive motives and symmetrical shapes, important for memorization and phrase development.
• The final section is more through-composed, offering contrast and requiring careful attention.

Melody vs. Harmony

• Musicians must understand how melody notes function relative to both the tonic key and the underlying chords.
• For example, the note B-flat is the tonic in B-flat major but can act as a flat 13th over a D7 chord.
• This dual perspective is crucial for creating harmonically rich improvisations.

Improvisation Techniques and Practice Tips

Building Solos Step-by-Step

• Start simple by emphasizing diatonic chord tones and tensions like flat 13ths.
• Gradually incorporate more complex scales such as the whole-tone scale or Altered scale for advanced color.
• Avoid loading your first chorus with all possible tensions—build your story progressively.

Practicing with the Metronome

• Use the metronome to develop timing and rhythmic precision.
• Practice playing dotted quarter notes and walking bass lines in 3/4 time to internalize the groove.
• Experiment with metronome clicks on beats 1 and 3 or just on beat 1 to build rhythmic flexibility.

Mastering Bass Lines and Triads

• Practice playing bass notes and triads in root position, first inversion, and second inversion to strengthen harmonic understanding.
• Employ voice leading techniques to smoothly connect chord tones and create melodic bass lines.
• Use exercises that combine metronome practice with triad patterns for technical control.

Targeting “Color Notes”

• Color notes are chord tones that lie outside the key signature and add emotional depth.
• Identify these notes in the tune (e.g., F-sharp in D7, D-flat diminished) and emphasize them during improvisation.
• Playing these notes strategically creates tension and release, essential in jazz phrasing.

Exploring Iconic Versions

Miles Davis Quintet Version

• Features the classic harmonic structure with flat 13 dominant chords and diminished passing tones.
• Emphasizes smooth voice leading and subtle melodic variations.

Chet Baker’s Interpretation in F Major

• Adds unique bass substitutions such as A half diminished instead of A7, creating a softer, more lyrical feel.
• Incorporates two-five progressions with minor chord relatives, expanding harmonic texture.

Sonny Stitt and Other Versions

• Different artists introduce variations in form and solo phrasing.
• Listening to multiple recordings aids in understanding interpretive possibilities and inspires creativity.

Practical Exercises to Apply Concepts

Triad Rhythm Exercise

• Play triads in root, first, and second inversions with a rhythm pattern of two eighth notes followed by a quarter note.
• Practice these triads over the entire form to build harmonic fluency and rhythmic accuracy.

Voice Leading Practice

• Connect triads by moving one voice up or down between chords.
• Focus on smooth transitions that highlight chord tones, improving melodic flow during solos.

Chromatic Passing Tones

• Use chromatic notes to approach chord tones, adding melodic interest.
• Practice landing on chord tones after chromatic approaches to maintain harmonic clarity.

Hard Skills vs. Soft Skills in Jazz Practice

Hard Skills: Precision and Repetition

• Repeatedly practice scales, chords, and exercises with precision and accuracy.
• Aim for consistent, computer-like execution without hesitation.

Soft Skills: Creativity and Expression

• Once foundational skills are solid, shift focus to creative improvisation.
• Experiment with phrasing, dynamics, and melodic ideas, allowing for mistakes and spontaneous expression.

Final Tips for Mastering the Tune

• Learn the melody thoroughly before improvising.
• Memorize the harmonic progression and color notes for confident soloing.
• Use metronome exercises to build rhythmic independence.
• Progress from technical exercises to creative improvisation gradually.
• Listen to and analyze multiple versions to broaden your musical vocabulary.
• Record your practice sessions to monitor progress and identify areas for improvement.

Conclusion

“Someday My Prince Will Come” offers a rich landscape for jazz musicians to develop their harmonic understanding, melodic interpretation, and improvisational skills. By breaking down the tune’s form, chords, and melody, and combining disciplined practice with creative exploration, you can master this timeless classic and bring your own voice to its enduring magic.

FAQ

Q: What is the best way to remember the harmonic progression?
Focus on the motion of chords, especially the thirds relationships and secondary dominants, rather than just memorizing chord names.

Q: How do color notes affect improvisation?
Color notes add emotional depth and tension. Targeting them during solos makes your playing more expressive and harmonically interesting.

Q: Should I practice improvisation with all tensions from the start?
No. Begin with simple chord tones and diatonic tensions, then gradually add more complex tensions as you become comfortable.

Q: How important is metronome practice?
Crucial. It develops timing, rhythmic precision, and helps you internalize the groove necessary for jazz performance.

Master this beautiful piece step-by-step, and you’ll find your jazz musicianship growing stronger and more expressive every day. Happy practicing!