Summertime — Quick Answer & Harmonic Definition

Summertime uses the chords Dm, Em7, Am7, Dm, Gm in the key of Dm. The progression follows a i–ii7–v7–i–iv pattern. This is a intermediate-level song.

Jazz · 1935 · Intermediate

Summertime

by George Gershwin
Key of Dm 120 BPM Intermediate

Chord Sheet

Key of Dm · Progression: i–ii7–v7–i–iv

Dm
chord 1
Em7
chord 2
Am7
chord 3
Dm
chord 4
Gm
chord 5
Chord Loop
Dm — Em7 — Am7 — Dm — Gm — ...
Roman Numeral Analysis
View the harmonic structure and functional analysis of this progression.
View Analysis →
Key
Dm
Tempo
120 BPM
Chords
5
Genre
Jazz

Practice Tips for Summertime

  • →Start at 60 BPM (50% tempo) until chord changes feel smooth.
  • →Loop just the Dm→Em7 transition repeatedly — this is often the hardest change.
  • →Use our Metronome set to 120 BPM for precise timing practice.
  • →Click any chord above to see its full piano keyboard and guitar fingering diagram.

How to Play Summertime by George Gershwin

Summertime (1935) is a intermediate-level jazz song that uses 5 chords: Dm, Em7, Am7, Dm, Gm in the key of Dm. The chord progression is i–ii7–v7–i–iv.

Chord Breakdown

  • Dm — minor chord, darker emotional sound
  • Em7 — dominant 7th, adds tension and movement
  • Am7 — dominant 7th, adds tension and movement
  • Dm — minor chord, darker emotional sound
  • Gm — minor chord, darker emotional sound

About Summertime

"Summertime" by George Gershwin (released 1935) is one of the most recognizable jazz songs ever recorded. Its 5-chord structure demonstrates how a simple progression can create an emotionally powerful and memorable piece of music. The combination of Dm, Em7, Am7 creates a harmonic loop that feels both complete and constantly forward-moving.

Learning Summertime as a Beginner

If you're learning to play Summertime, start by getting comfortable with each chord individually before trying to switch between them. The goal is to make each chord change automatic — your fingers should know where to go without you having to think about it. Practice the chord loop slowly with a metronome, and you'll be playing the full song within a few weeks.

Similar Songs (Same Key or Chords)

Bohemian Rhapsody
Queen
Bb – Gm – Cm – F – Eb
Advanced
Bb · 72 BPM
A Thousand Years
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Bb – F – Gm – Eb
Beginner
Bb · 45 BPM
Yesterday
The Beatles
F – Em – A7 – Dm – Bb – C7
Intermediate
F · 96 BPM
Jolene
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Dm – F – C – Dm
Beginner
Dm · 148 BPM
The Scientist
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Dm – Bb – F – C
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F · 75 BPM
Piano Man
Billy Joel
C – G – F – Am – D – Dm
Intermediate
C · 92 BPM
Metronome
Practice at 120 BPM
Tuner
Tune your instrument
Piano
Play on virtual piano
Guitar
Play on fretboard

Knowledge Base & FAQs

Summertime by George Gershwin — FAQ

Everything you need to know about our browser-based Web Audio engine, instruments, and music theory workspace.

What chords are in Summertime by George Gershwin?

Summertime uses the chords Dm, Em7, Am7, Dm, Gm in the key of Dm.

The progression follows a i–ii7–v7–i–iv pattern. This is a intermediate-level song.

What key is Summertime in?

Summertime by George Gershwin is in the key of Dm.

The primary chords are Dm, Em7, Am7.

What is the tempo of Summertime?

Summertime is played at approximately 120 BPM.

This is a faster tempo — practice slowly first before bringing it to full speed. Use our free metronome to practice at exactly 120 BPM.

What strumming pattern does Summertime use?

Summertime is typically in 4/4 time.

A common strumming pattern is down-down-up-up-down-up (DDUUDU) or simplified all-down for beginners. Focus on getting chord changes smooth before adding strumming complexity.

How do I play Dm chord on guitar?

Dm is the main chord in Summertime.

See our chord library for the Dm chord diagram with exact fingering.

Can I play Summertime on piano?

Yes! Summertime sounds great on piano.

Play the chords Dm, Em7, Am7, Dm, Gm in root position or inversions. Left hand plays bass notes (root of each chord), right hand plays chord voicings. This is a intermediate-level arrangement.

Is Summertime beginner-friendly?

Summertime is rated Intermediate difficulty.

The chord changes and rhythm require some practice.

What is the chord progression in Summertime?

The main progression in Summertime is Dm – Em7 – Am7 – Dm – Gm (Roman numeral: i–ii7–v7–i–iv).

This 5-chord pattern repeats throughout most of the song.

Can I transpose Summertime to a different key?

Yes! Summertime is in Dm.

To make it easier, try transposing to G or D using a capo. A capo changes your effective key while keeping the same chord shapes. Use our Transpose Tool to convert all chord names automatically.

What genre is Summertime?

Summertime by George Gershwin is a Jazz song from 1935.

Its 5-chord progression (Dm, Em7, Am7, Dm, Gm) translates naturally to different tempos and styles, making it a popular cover choice for musicians of all levels.