: Practice playing through a basic progression (e.g., in E-flat) while aiming to enhance every scale degree with at least two different chord options.

: View harmony as a way to document your current feeling or inspiration in the moment. Key Technical Concepts

: Before introducing personal harmonic variations, always state the original melody clearly so the audience can recognize the song's foundation.

: Harmonic choices should vary based on location and atmosphere. For example, in a "high worship" setting, Henry suggests staying closer to the original composition to maintain unity, whereas solo performances allow for more experimental stretching.

: He teaches a framework for transforming basic progressions (like a standard 2-5-1) into "Gospel-feeling" movements by adding passing chords and phrases that bridge the primary harmonic pillars.

For those looking to dive deeper into these specific techniques, the Cory Henry Workshop on YousicPlay provides a structured lesson plan covering these harmonic functions and soloing frameworks. Master class with Cory Henry on Harmony

: A "secret" to his modern sound is using the whole-step half-step diminished scale to derive dominant chords that move in minor 3rds. He often employs a "slash chord" style harmonic approach to stretch these dominant functions.