Write Nostalgic Chords

🎹 Want to make your chord progressions instantly more nostalgic? Here’s a simple trick: Take a basic progression—and extend your chords. Start with any triads. Then add the 7ths. Then the 9ths. But here’s the key: Drop your 9ths an octave and double-check that they’re all a major 2nd above the root. If any are a minor 2nd, bump them up a half step for that dreamy, non-dissonant feel. Finally, open up your voicing by lifting every other note (except the root) up an octave. This creates a warm, airy sound that feels cinematic and bittersweet. ✨ This works great for lo-fi, indie, ambient, or emotional film score cues. Save this post and try it with your next piano sketch — you might just write your new favorite progression. 🧠 Want more techniques like this? Grab a copy of my textbook The Musical Storyteller — link in bio.