Free Piano Arrangement of "Misty"

[harry likas]

I’ve arranged the classic standard “Misty” for solo piano, using my 2+2 basic chord voicing method.

https://harrypiano.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Misty.22.Eb_.png

The 2+2 chord voicing approach is a practical system for pianists to build harmonies directly from lead sheets. It keeps things simple by assigning each hand a clear role. The left hand supplies the harmonic foundation—usually playing the root and 7th or the root and 3rd (occasionally the root and 5th). The right-hand thumb fills in the remaining essential chord tone, either the 3rd or 7th (whichever isn’t already covered by the left hand), while the rest of the right-hand fingers play the melody on top.

This setup promotes smooth voice leading, creates a balanced sound, and works well in both solo and group settings. When it’s time to solo, a bebop jazz pianist can continue using the left hand as in the arrangement—alternating between root and 7th or root and 3rd voicings—to provide a strong foundation for exploring more advanced spread voicings. As players grow more comfortable with 2+2 chord voicings, they can enrich their harmony with additional notes, increase left-hand rhythmic motion, and incorporate melodic embellishments to develop their own unique style.

Please check out my 1,100 Jazzy Piano Arrangements of Standards and 50 Tutorials at www.Patreon.com/HarryLikas

I was the technical editor for Mark Levine’s The Jazz Theory Book and a contributor to The Jazz Piano Book.
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[kathryncraig]

This explanation of comping is wonderfully clear and concise! The breakdown of left and right-hand roles makes the technique feel accessible. Thank you for demystifying this essential jazz skill.  Exploring shell voicings or considering approaches that incorporate upper structure triads could offer even more harmonic color. papa's freezeria