Autumn Leaves is one of the most important jazz standards for any guitarist to learn. Written by Joseph Kosma with lyrics by Jacques Prévert, this classic shifts between relative major and minor keys and features the most common chord progression in jazz — a series of ii-V-I movements. At Fretprints, we break the tune down across multiple lessons covering harmonic analysis, comping, voice leading exercises, rhythm studies, improvisation, and melody.
Harmonic Analysis
Start here to understand the chord changes, form, and harmonic structure of Autumn Leaves. This lesson covers the key centers, ii-V-I movements, and how the A and B sections relate to each other.
Comping and Voice Leading
Learn to comp through Autumn Leaves with smooth voice leading. These lessons cover chord voicings, shell voicings, and how to connect chords with minimal hand movement across the fingerboard.
- Comping — Autumn Leaves
- Chord Voice Leading One
- Chord Voice Leading Two
- Chord Voice Leading Three
- Chord Voice Leading Four
- Chord Voice Leading Five
Rhythm Exercises
Build your rhythmic confidence on Autumn Leaves with these progressive Soundslice exercises. Each one focuses on a different rhythmic pattern applied to the chord changes, helping you develop a stronger sense of time and groove.
- Rhythm Exercise One
- Rhythm Exercise Two
- Rhythm Exercise Three
- Rhythm Exercise Four
- Rhythm Exercise Five
Melody and Etudes
Learn the melody and study written-out etudes that demonstrate how to navigate the harmony of Autumn Leaves with fluid, musical lines.
Get Started
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