Chords in the Key of A minor
The key of A minor contains the notes A – B – C – D – E – F – G. Its seven chords are Am, Bdim, C, Dm, Em, F, G.
The seven chords of A minor
These are the triads built on each note of the A minor scale. The numerals show where each chord sits in the key: capital letters are major chords, lowercase letters are minor.
| Numeral | Chord | Notes | Function |
|---|---|---|---|
| i | Am | A – C – E | Tonic |
| ii° | Bdim | B – D – F | Supertonic |
| III | C | C – E – G | Mediant |
| iv | Dm | D – F – A | Subdominant |
| v | Em | E – G – B | Dominant |
| VI | F | F – A – C | Submediant |
| VII | G | G – B – D | Subtonic |
Seventh chords in A minor
Adding the seventh gives a richer, more open sound. These are the seventh chords that fit A minor.
Key signature of A minor
A minor has no sharps or flats.
The relative major of A minor is C major: it uses exactly the same notes and chords, but feels brighter.
How to use the chords of A minor
Most songs in a minor key start and end on the i chord and lean on the iv and v chords. Try borrowing the major V chord to make the ending pull harder toward the home chord.
Chord progressions in A minor
Popular progressions written out in A minor:
- i-VI-III-VII: Am – F – C – G
- Andalusian Cadence (i-VII-VI-V): Am – G – F – E
- i-iv-v (minor blues): Am – Dm – Em
- i-VI-VII: Am – F – G
Scales to play in A minor
Related keys
FAQ
What chords are in the key of A minor?
The chords in A minor are Am, Bdim, C, Dm, Em, F, G, which are chords i – ii° – III – iv – v – VI – VII of the key.
What is the relative major of A minor?
It is C major. The two keys share exactly the same notes and chords.
How many sharps or flats are in A minor?
A minor has no sharps or flats.
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