Chords in the key of C minor
The C minor scale is C – D – Eb – F – G – Ab – Bb. Building a chord on each note gives the seven chords below, numbered with Roman numerals (lowercase for minor, uppercase for major).
7th chords in C minor
Add the seventh note of the scale to each chord for a richer, jazzier sound.
Common progressions in C minor
- i–iv–VCmFmG
- Andalusian cadenceCmBbAbG
- i–VI–III–VIICmAbEbBb
Questions
What chords are in the key of C minor?
The chords in C minor are Cm, Ddim, Eb, Fm, Gm, Ab and Bb, plus G (a major V borrowed from the harmonic minor scale).
Which chords in C minor are major and which are minor?
Major: Eb, Ab and Bb. Minor: Cm, Fm and Gm. Ddim is diminished.
What is the relative major of C minor?
Eb major. It uses the same notes and chords, but centers on Eb.
How can I play in C minor with easy chords?
Put a capo on fret 3 and play the open chords of A minor: Am, C, Dm, Em, F and G.