Chords in the Key of C# minor
The key of C# minor contains the notes C# – D# – E – F# – G# – A – B. Its seven chords are C#m, D#dim, E, F#m, G#m, A, B.
The seven chords of C# minor
These are the triads built on each note of the C# 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 | C#m | C# – E – G# | Tonic |
| ii° | D#dim | D# – F# – A | Supertonic |
| III | E | E – G# – B | Mediant |
| iv | F#m | F# – A – C# | Subdominant |
| v | G#m | G# – B – D# | Dominant |
| VI | A | A – C# – E | Submediant |
| VII | B | B – D# – F# | Subtonic |
Seventh chords in C# minor
Adding the seventh gives a richer, more open sound. These are the seventh chords that fit C# minor.
Key signature of C# minor
C# minor has 4 sharps: F#, C#, G#, D#.
The relative major of C# minor is E major: it uses exactly the same notes and chords, but feels brighter.
How to use the chords of C# 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 C# minor
Popular progressions written out in C# minor:
- i-VI-III-VII: C#m – A – E – B
- Andalusian Cadence (i-VII-VI-V): C#m – B – A – G#
- i-iv-v (minor blues): C#m – F#m – G#m
- i-VI-VII: C#m – A – B
Scales to play in C# minor
Related keys
FAQ
What chords are in the key of C# minor?
The chords in C# minor are C#m, D#dim, E, F#m, G#m, A, B, which are chords i – ii° – III – iv – v – VI – VII of the key.
What is the relative major of C# minor?
It is E major. The two keys share exactly the same notes and chords.
How many sharps or flats are in C# minor?
C# minor has 4 sharps: F#, C#, G#, D#.
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