The Circle of Fifths
What is the Circle of Fifths
What is the circle of fifths? Well in it’s most basic definition it’s a way of organizing the 12 chromatic pitches as a sequence of perfect fifths.
The Circle of Fifths - Sequence
If C is chosen as a starting point, the sequence is: C, G, D, A, E, B, F sharp/G flat, C sharp/D flat , A flat, E flat, B flat, F. Continuing the pattern from F returns the sequence to its starting point of C.
The Circle of Fifths - Relative Scales
Despite the C major scale starting on C, and the A minor scale starting on A, both scales have something in common. They both share the fact that they contain no key signatures. There are no sharps or flats. Just natural notes. Because of this they are called relative scales.
Think of it this way… you and your biological family members share DNA. Well in this case these two scales are relative to each other because they share the same DNA of no sharps and no flats.
Have any questions about the circle of fifths or anything mentioned above? I’ll be happy to answer them:
