Finding the Right Chords
I recently had a great question from a reader about other ways to use the Circle of Keys — beyond just finding the notes in a particular major scale or key. Specifically: what about the chords?
Finding the Major Chords in a Key
A great way to find all of the major chords in a key is to look at the adjacent keys on either side of the one you want to play in.
For example, in the key of C major you’ll see F before it and G after it. So those three chords will be major-type chords:
- C Major
- F Major
- G Major
Now Add the Minor Chords
In the classic wheel-style Circle of Keys graphic above, it also shows the minor chords under each major key. So in the key of C you’ll have:
- D minor
- E minor
- A minor
And lastly, in every major key you’ll have that lone diminished chord. In this case: B diminished.
You can get a jumpstart on how to build these chords all over the neck in the Beginner’s Chord Guide.
The 5-Book Bundle Deal
If you missed the $25 deal on the 5-book bundle, it’s still live — and you get the Guitar Triads guide free with it. 💥
Until next time,
Craig Smith — Guitarist & Author
More guitar lessons, books, and practice routines at LifeIn12Keys.com and GuitarPractice.Pro.
Craig is a full-time professional guitarist in Central Florida, playing 200+ gigs a year for nearly 30 years. He's taught guitar for 27 years and written five instructional books.