Music Theory
Circle of Fifths Explained
The circle of fifths is a map of keys. Move clockwise and each key gains one sharp. Move counterclockwise and each key gains one flat.
How to read it
The outside letters are major keys. The smaller inside labels are relative minor keys. C major and A minor share the same notes, so they sit together.
Neighboring keys are closely related. In C major, the nearest keys are G major and F major. That is why progressions such as C, F, and G feel stable.
Why players use it
- Find the chords that naturally belong in a key.
- Transpose a song to a different key.
- Understand why a song moves from one key center to another.
- Find relative major and minor keys quickly.
Try it in Chords & Scales
Pick a key from the circle, then open the scale view to see the notes on guitar or keyboard.
Open Chords & Scales