7.26A practical harmonization test

When choosing between candidate chords, evaluate four things:

1. Does the melody fit reasonably?

Chord tone or acceptable tension?

2. Does the chord make functional sense?

Where are we heading?

3. Does the bass line make sense?

Smooth or intentionally dramatic?

4. Does it sound good?

The ear gets the final vote.

Theory narrows options.

It does not replace listening.