Summary of Dick Hyman's Professional Chord Changes and Substitutions for 100 Tunes Every Musician Should Know

Unlock your musical potential with Dick Hyman's guide on chord changes! Transform 100 tunes and elevate your playing to new heights.

Alright, music enthusiasts! Get ready to dive into a treasure chest of chordal wisdom, courtesy of our good friend Dick Hyman. If you've ever found yourself staring blankly at sheet music wondering how to jazz up a tune, this book is your new best friend. Think of it as the Swiss Army knife of chord changes-minus the pointy tools but with a lot more musical flair!

First off, let's talk about the number 100. Yes, you read that right! Dick Hyman (not to be confused with any other Hyman, thank you very much!) provides 100 tunes for you to spice up with his sacred chord changes and substitutions. Imagine it: a hundred tunes, all ripe for transformation. It's like getting a hundred pairs of shoes but for your piano.

Now, as you flip through the pages (and no, we're not talking about the tedious flipping of a laundry list), you'll find a delightful assortment of tunes spanning a variety of styles. Whether you're into jazz, pop, or perhaps you just want to impress your neighbor with your lush playing during their next barbecue, this book has got you covered. And no, you don't have to be a music prodigy. All you need is the will to play and a bit of rhythm-because let's face it, no one wants to sound like a cat stuck in a piano.

What's the deal with these chord changes, you ask? Well, folks, Hyman doesn't just throw some random chords your way and call it a day. Oh no! He lays the groundwork for substitutions that will make the dullest of progressions sound like a symphony. We're talking about making your plain old C major strip down and get all jazzy with a few slick moves. You'll go from "Oh dear, what is that noise?" to "Wow, are you taking requests?!"

Throughout the book, Hyman peppers in his own musical wisdom, ensuring you're not only learning how to play but also how to think like a musician. Spoiler alert for those averse to music theory: there's some of that in there too! But fear not, Hyman's explanations are more entertaining than an open mic night gone wrong, and he makes it accessible even for those whose biggest musical achievement is playing "Chopsticks."

Let's not forget about the importance of practice, people! Hyman emphasizes that these chord changes aren't just a "set it and forget it" situation. Just like a fine wine needs to breathe, your newfound skills need to be honed. So grab that piano bench, plop down, and prepare to unleash some serious musical sorcery.

In conclusion, Dick Hyman's Professional Chord Changes and Substitutions isn't just a book; it's a gateway to unlocking your inner musical genius. So whether you're a seasoned musician or someone who accidentally stumbled upon a piano, this book promises to open doors you didn't even know were closed. Just be ready-for once you start making those substitutions, there's no going back. Get ready to wow your friends and neighbors, and maybe, just maybe, land that gig you always dreamed of! Happy playing! 🎹✨️

Maddie Page

Classics, bestsellers, and guilty pleasures-none are safe from my sarcastic recaps. I turn heavy reads into lighthearted summaries you can actually enjoy. Warning: may cause random outbursts of laughter while pretending to study literature.