Are you looking for the secret to unlocking the mystery of music theory? The answer can be found in the circle of fifths.
This concept describes the relationship between the 12 different tones of the chromatic scale and their related major and minor keys. It demonstrates the connection between scales in a way that is relatively easy to understand.
Put simply, it’s a shortcut for understanding the relationships between different key signatures. However, you will need to understand the diagram first. Then you will be able to glide through chord changes and key signatures with ease.
Reading the circles of fifth is actually much easier than you think. Here are a few tips to help you get started:
- When going clockwise, remember that each key is a fifth above the last.
- When moving counter-clockwise, each key is a fourth above the last. In some versions of the circle, uppercase letters signify major keys, while lowercase letters represent the related minor keys.
- When you begin at C major, add one sharp to each key when going clockwise until C# major. It then changes to flats that decline by one on each key as you finish the circle.
- Keys directly across from one another are tri-tones of each other.
So, when you next listen to a piece of music, the circle of fifths can offer clues as to what keys and chords you are hearing. This helpful guide explains more about using the circle of fifths and how you can make it work for you.
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