Oscar Peterson Days Of Wine And Roses Transcription – Latest

"Days of Wine and Roses" was written by Henry Mancini and Johnny Mercer in 1963 for the film of the same name. The song has since become a jazz standard, with countless interpretations by artists around the world. Oscar Peterson's version, recorded in 1965, is particularly notable for its understated elegance and poignant expression.

Peterson starts with the Henry Mancini/Johnny Mercer melody but quickly reharmonizes. Before diving into the transcription, be solid on the standard chord changes (Bb major for his version). Then note where Peterson substitutes chords (e.g., using ii-Vs, diminished passing chords, and tritone subs). oscar peterson days of wine and roses transcription

One of the most compelling aspects of studying a transcription of this track is analyzing Peterson’s harmonic choices. He takes the relatively straightforward pop-jazz structure of the Mancini tune and infuses it with complex substitutions. "Days of Wine and Roses" was written by

Notice how he uses —playing a half-step below a chord tone before landing on it. Notice how his right hand often plays a simple melody while his left hand plays a countermelody. This is “stride waltz.” Peterson starts with the Henry Mancini/Johnny Mercer melody

This creates a rising chromatic bass line that surprises the ear but still fits the melody.