The Nearness of You – Harmonic Analysis & Transposition

Welcome to this in-depth exploration of the jazz standard "The Nearness of You". In this lesson, we break down the harmonic structure of the tune and explore techniques for transposing it to different keys. We also analyze the voicings and stylistic choices of a pianist who plays this tune in a unique and inspiring way.

Understanding the Harmonic Structure

To internalize the tune, we first break it down into its essential harmonic components. In the key of F major, the progression follows:

• 1 bar of Fmaj7 (the I chord)
• A 2-5-1 to Bbmaj7 (the IV chord) – G-7 to C7 to Bbmaj7
• Bb diminished passing chord
• Descending 3-6-2-5 progression – A-7 to D7 to G-7 to C7
• Repetition of the 3-6-2-5 back to Fmaj7

Recognizing these common jazz progressions allows us to transpose the song to other keys with ease.

Transposing to the Key of C Major

The pianist in the recording plays the tune in C major instead of F major. To transpose, we apply the same harmonic formula:

• Cmaj7 for the I chord
• A 2-5-1 to Fmaj7 – D-7 to G7 to Fmaj7
• F diminished passing chord
• Descending 3-6-2-5 progression – E-7 to A7 to D-7 to G7
• Back to the I chord (Cmaj7)

This method of transposing using numbers (rather than chord names) makes it much easier to play in different keys.

Rooted vs. Rootless Voicings

One of the key takeaways from this pianist’s interpretation is the interplay between rooted and rootless voicings. He often begins with a stride-style rooted voicing, then switches to rootless two-handed voicings for a more colorful sound.

For example:

• G-7 to C7 can be played with rootless voicings in the left hand:
  G-7: Bb-D-F-A
  C7: Bb-D-E-G
• Back to rooted voicings on the resolution to Fmaj7

This approach adds contrast and movement, keeping the arrangement interesting.

Melody Variations & Embellishments

The pianist rarely plays the melody exactly as written. Instead, he introduces:

• Grace notes & slides – Adding expressive articulation
• Upper structure triad runs – Quickly ascending or descending through upper extensions
• Melodic substitutions – Swapping chord tones to add new colors

For instance, over A-7, he sometimes plays A-11 instead, emphasizing the 11th (D) in the melody rather than the minor third (C).

Advanced Voicings & Upper Structures

A notable technique used in this arrangement is upper structure triads. This is when a major triad is played over a dominant chord to highlight extensions.

Example over D7 (the VI chord in F major):

• B triad over D7 creates a D7#9#5 sound.

This technique provides rich harmonic colors and is frequently used in jazz improvisation.

Five Practice Tips

1. Analyze the chord progressions numerically – This makes transposition much easier.
2. Experiment with both rooted and rootless voicings – Mix stride-style playing with compact two-handed voicings.
3. Use grace notes and embellishments – Small touches can bring the melody to life.
4. Introduce upper structure triads – Play major triads over dominant chords to add tension and color.
5. Practice transposing small sections – Start with the first four bars and move them to different keys.

By applying these techniques, you’ll gain deeper insight into harmonic movement, melody embellishment, and jazz voicings, allowing you to play "The Nearness of You" with confidence and creativity.