Music theory

Interactive Circle of Fifths

Click any key to see its signature, scale and chords — and hear the chords and progressions played.

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C major

Scale notes

Chords in this key (click to play)

Popular chord progressions

Relative key:

Closest keys:

Camelot:

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How it works

Pick a key

Click a major key on the outer ring or a minor key on the inner ring.

Explore the theory

See sharps and flats, scale notes, the seven diatonic chords and the closest keys.

Hear and write

Play chords and progressions, then turn them into a song idea in Music Studio.

How to use the circle of fifths

The circle of fifths arranges the 12 keys so each step clockwise adds one sharp and each step counter-clockwise adds one flat. Neighbouring keys share six of seven notes, which is why songs modulate between them so naturally.

Use it to find the chords in a key, build progressions like I–V–vi–IV, transpose songs, or pick compatible keys for DJ mixing. The relative minor of every major key sits right beneath it on the inner ring.

Frequently asked questions

What is the circle of fifths?

It is a diagram of the 12 musical keys ordered by fifths. It shows key signatures, relative minors and which keys are closely related.

How do I find the chords in a key?

Click the key. The tool lists all seven diatonic chords with Roman numerals — for C major that is C, Dm, Em, F, G, Am and B°.

What are the most common chord progressions?

I–V–vi–IV, I–vi–IV–V and ii–V–I in major, and i–VI–III–VII and i–iv–v in minor. Click any of them to hear it in the selected key.

How do I remember the order of sharps and flats?

Sharps go F, C, G, D, A, E, B ("Father Charles Goes Down And Ends Battle") and flats go in reverse: B, E, A, D, G, C, F.