Chords in the Key of B minor
The key of B minor contains the notes B – C# – D – E – F# – G – A. Its seven chords are Bm, C#dim, D, Em, F#m, G, A.
The seven chords of B minor
These are the triads built on each note of the B 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 | Bm | B – D – F# | Tonic |
| ii° | C#dim | C# – E – G | Supertonic |
| III | D | D – F# – A | Mediant |
| iv | Em | E – G – B | Subdominant |
| v | F#m | F# – A – C# | Dominant |
| VI | G | G – B – D | Submediant |
| VII | A | A – C# – E | Subtonic |
Seventh chords in B minor
Adding the seventh gives a richer, more open sound. These are the seventh chords that fit B minor.
Key signature of B minor
B minor has 2 sharps: F#, C#.
The relative major of B minor is D major: it uses exactly the same notes and chords, but feels brighter.
How to use the chords of B 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 B minor
Popular progressions written out in B minor:
- i-VI-III-VII: Bm – G – D – A
- Andalusian Cadence (i-VII-VI-V): Bm – A – G – F#
- i-iv-v (minor blues): Bm – Em – F#m
- i-VI-VII: Bm – G – A
Scales to play in B minor
Related keys
FAQ
What chords are in the key of B minor?
The chords in B minor are Bm, C#dim, D, Em, F#m, G, A, which are chords i – ii° – III – iv – v – VI – VII of the key.
What is the relative major of B minor?
It is D major. The two keys share exactly the same notes and chords.
How many sharps or flats are in B minor?
B minor has 2 sharps: F#, C#.
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