I have come to the tentative conclusion that there are some people who think mainly in melodies and some who think mainly in chords.

When I hear a tune I immediately "hear" the chords that fit the tune and hence the possible harmonies that can be created using the other notes of the chords. It also means that I can identify the key of the tune.

If you have an instrument that does not play chords then that must cut down your potential harmony playing.

Robin