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The Major 3rds Cycles - Descending & Ascending
The Major 3rds Cycles - Descending & Ascending
The Major 3rds Harmonic Cycle, in both its descending and ascending form, has historically been an effective harmonic device for improvisers and composers alike.
Pioneered by the iconic John Coltrane, the descending version of this cycle has become commonly known as "Coltrane Changes" (on which his tune "Giant Steps" - among others - is based). At the same time, the ascending cycle - coined here as "Retrosteps" - has been explored to a far lesser degree.
The original intention, as in Coltrane's case, was his use of this cycle as a substitution for the common ii-V7-I harmonic movement. While harmonic resolution in Perfect 4ths / 5ths (Cycle of 5ths) is the foundation on which Western harmony is based, both descending and ascending Major 3rds Cycles offer creative alternatives.
Pioneered by the iconic John Coltrane, the descending version of this cycle has become commonly known as "Coltrane Changes" (on which his tune "Giant Steps" - among others - is based). At the same time, the ascending cycle - coined here as "Retrosteps" - has been explored to a far lesser degree.
The original intention, as in Coltrane's case, was his use of this cycle as a substitution for the common ii-V7-I harmonic movement. While harmonic resolution in Perfect 4ths / 5ths (Cycle of 5ths) is the foundation on which Western harmony is based, both descending and ascending Major 3rds Cycles offer creative alternatives.
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