Minor Swing (Django Reinhardt)
Minor Swing
Django Reinhardt's "Minor Swing" is often the entry tune for players to explore the gypsy jazz style.
The Melody
Chords
This lesson uses two variations of the chord progression. One uses 3-note "Freddie Greene" chord voicings. The other uses more authentic gypsy jazz chord voicings, and simplifies the progression slightly.
Freddie Green Chords
A-7
A-7
Bb7
B-7b5
D-7
E7
Gypsy Jazz Chords
A-6
D-6
E9
Freddie Greene
| A-7 | % | D-7 | % |
| B-7b5 | E7 | A-7 | % |
| G- | C9 | Fmaj7 | % |
| B-7b5 | E7 | A-7 | B-7b5, E7 |
Gypsy Jazz Chords
| A-6 | % | D-6 | % |
| E9 | % | A-6 | % |
| D-6 | % | A-6 | % |
| E9 | % | A-6 | % |
Scales Used
A Minor Scale
The natural minor scale is the foundation of this piece.
A Harmonic Minor Scale
The harmonic minor adds tension with its raised seventh degree.
Whole Tone Scale
This scale creates an ethereal sound with its evenly spaced whole steps.
