Chord Melody, Reharmonization, and Improvisation: A Performance-Driven Global Approach, Presented by Carlos Capacho
Carlos Capacho
Image courtesy of the artist
This one-hour master class explores chord melody and reharmonization through live performance on the Venezuelan cuatro. The session demonstrates how a single melodic line can be reharmonized and developed in real time while maintaining groove, form, and cultural character.
Although the Venezuelan cuatro serves as the sole demonstration instrument, the workshop presents chord melody as a universal musical concept rather than an instrument-specific technique. Through performance, guided explanation, and musical examples, participants will learn how these ideas translate naturally to any instrument or
musical tradition, regardless of tuning system or stylistic background.
The master class emphasizes musical decision-making, voice-leading, and improvisational clarity, showing how harmony can be reshaped creatively without compromising melodic identity or rhythmic feel.
Participants will:
- Experience chord melody and reharmonization demonstrated live on Venezuelan cuatro
- Understand how to reshape harmony while preserving melody, groove, and form
- Learn practical strategies for real-time reharmonization
- Apply chord melody concepts to any instrument, including world and folk instruments
- Develop a deeper improvisational mindset grounded in harmony and voice-leading