On Green Dolphin Street

Summary

“On Green Dolphin Street” is a timeless jazz standard, revered for its rich harmonic structure and melodic creativity. Originating in the 1940s, it has undergone numerous transformations through interpretations by jazz greats like Jimmy Dorsey, Ahmad Jamal, and Miles Davis, evolving into a staple tune played in jam sessions worldwide. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the original arrangements, harmonic analysis, melodic intricacies, and contemporary reharmonizations that make this tune a fascinating study for jazz musicians of all levels.

The Historical Context and Original Version

Jazz in the 1940s: Sound and Style

The original recording of “On Green Dolphin Street” by Jimmy Dorsey reflects the sophisticated jazz orchestration typical of the 1930s and 40s. This era emphasized a distinct vibrato style—fast and subtle, especially for woodwind players—which differs greatly from the slower, bigger vibratos favored in modern jazz. The bass line in the original version maintains a steady two-beat pulse rather than a walking bass, aligning with the commercial swing sound of that period.

Key and Form

Originally performed in D-flat major, the tune employs a 32-bar form structured as A B A C. Notably, in the second chorus, the key modulates down a whole step to B major, a shift that adds harmonic interest and complexity.

Harmonic Analysis of the Original Version

Basic Progressions and Chord Functions

At its core, “On Green Dolphin Street” relies on classic jazz harmony and chord progressions. The tune features several two-five-one (ii-V-I) progressions, a fundamental building block in jazz harmony. The original version uses major sixth chords rather than major sevenths, reflecting harmonic practices of the time.

One important harmonic detail is the use of the flat nine (b9) tension on dominant chords, evident in the melody and chord voicing. This adds a subtle dissonance that resolves smoothly, enriching the harmonic palette.

Unusual Harmonic Movements

The tune also incorporates a parallel minor section (C minor parallel to C major), introducing color and contrast. Additionally, it uses tritone substitutions and constant structures—techniques that disguise the traditional ii-V-I progressions by replacing dominant chords with their tritone equivalents or using repeated chord shapes for tension-building.

Deceptive Resolutions Explained

A notable feature in this tune is the deceptive resolution, where dominant chords resolve unexpectedly to chords other than the tonic. This breaks the predictable five-to-one cadence and adds harmonic surprise, keeping the listener engaged.

Melodic Characteristics

Unlike many jazz standards which stick closely to diatonic scales, the melody of “On Green Dolphin Street” is chromatic and adventurous for its time. It features notes outside the typical scale, including flat thirds and sharp elevenths, providing a sophisticated melodic contour that challenges improvisers to think beyond the usual scales.

Evolution Through Iconic Interpretations

Ahmad Jamal’s Version

Ahmad Jamal’s interpretation, played in C major, introduces a dominant pedal point (G pedal) rather than a tonic pedal, creating a different harmonic tension and rhythmic feel. His rhythmic displacement and use of pedal tones lend the tune a fresh, modern groove while maintaining its original harmonic essence.

Miles Davis’s Approach

Miles Davis took the tune further by incorporating extended chord voicings and altered dominants, including flat threes and Lydian modes. His version is characterized by a more fluid bass line and modern harmonic substitutions, such as minor ii-V progressions, diminished chords, and chromatic bass movements. This reflects the shift in jazz harmony from the swing era to post-bop sensibilities.

Modern Jam Session Practices

Today, the standard is commonly played in E-flat major with familiar chord-scale choices that reflect contemporary jazz language:

• Chord Scales:
  Use of Lydian mode over major chords, Dorian and Mixolydian modes over minor and dominant chords respectively.
• Altered Dominants:
  Incorporation of altered scales and diminished scales on dominant chords to add tension and release.
• Pedal Points and Bass Motion:
  Bass lines often emphasize ii-V progressions with chromatic and modal variations, supporting improvisation.

Advanced Harmonic Concepts and Chord-Scale Theory

Chord-Scale Choices

Understanding which scale fits over each chord is crucial for effective improvisation. For example:

• Major chords: Ionian or Lydian scales (e.g., E-flat Lydian for the flat three major 7 chord).
• Dominant chords: Mixolydian, altered, or diminished scales depending on the tension required.
• Minor chords: Dorian or Aeolian modes.

Diminished Scale Usage

The half-step whole-step diminished scale is often used over dominant chords with flat nine tensions. This scale, symmetrical in nature, allows for smooth chromatic transitions and is frequently employed in passing chord contexts.

Reharmonization Techniques and Practice

Concept of Reharmonization

Reharmonization involves altering the harmonic background of a melody while keeping the tune recognizable. This can include substituting chords, changing bass lines, and adding tensions or modal colors.

Example Reharmonization Highlights

• Starting on the IV chord (A-flat major) instead of the tonic creates a fresh harmonic color.
• Use of tonic pedals (E-flat pedal) combined with chromatic motion in upper voices adds tension and release.
• Incorporation of non-diatonic chords such as G Lydian and harmonic major scales introduces unexpected but musically pleasing sounds.
• Voice leading is carefully crafted to connect chord tones smoothly, ensuring melodic coherence.

Motivic Development

Practicing small melodic motives and transposing them across the chord changes improves improvisation skills and understanding of harmonic structures.

Practical Tips for Musicians

1. Listen and Analyze Different Versions:
   Study the original and various interpretations to understand harmonic and rhythmic evolution.

2. Master the Form and Key Centers:
   Knowing the 32-bar A B A C form and the common keys (D-flat, C, E-flat) is essential.

3. Practice Chord-Scale Relationships:
   Familiarize yourself with which scales fit each chord and practice improvising using these scales.

4. Explore Reharmonization:
   Experiment with substituting chords and altering bass lines to create new harmonic textures.

5. Focus on Voice Leading:
   Smooth transitions between chord tones make solos and comping more musical.

6. Use Play-Along Tracks:
   Utilize available backing tracks that isolate instruments to practice specific roles such as piano or bass.

Why “On Green Dolphin Street” Matters

“On Green Dolphin Street” serves as a microcosm of jazz’s harmonic and melodic development from the 1940s swing era to modern jazz. Its rich chord progressions, chromatic melody, and flexibility for reharmonization make it an ideal study for jazz students, educators, and performers. By understanding its harmonic structure and exploring different versions, musicians can expand their vocabulary, improve improvisation, and deepen their appreciation for jazz harmony.

FAQ

Q1: What is a deceptive resolution in jazz harmony?
A1: It occurs when a dominant chord resolves to a chord other than the tonic, creating unexpected harmonic movement.

Q2: How does the original version differ from modern renditions?
A2: The original uses simpler chords with major sixths and no walking bass, while modern versions incorporate extended chords, altered dominants, and walking bass lines.

Q3: Which scales are typically used over dominant chords in this tune?
A3: Mixolydian, altered, and diminished scales are common choices, depending on the desired tension.

Q4: Why is voice leading important in reharmonization?
A4: It ensures smooth melodic transitions between chords, maintaining musical coherence and enhancing the harmonic flow.

Mastering “On Green Dolphin Street” offers a gateway into jazz harmony’s complexities and beauties. Whether you are a performer, student, or enthusiast, this tune provides endless opportunities to learn, explore, and innovate. Keep practicing, keep listening, and keep swinging!