Chords in the Key of E minor
The key of E minor contains the notes E – F# – G – A – B – C – D. Its seven chords are Em, F#dim, G, Am, Bm, C, D.
The seven chords of E minor
These are the triads built on each note of the E 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 | Em | E – G – B | Tonic |
| ii° | F#dim | F# – A – C | Supertonic |
| III | G | G – B – D | Mediant |
| iv | Am | A – C – E | Subdominant |
| v | Bm | B – D – F# | Dominant |
| VI | C | C – E – G | Submediant |
| VII | D | D – F# – A | Subtonic |
Seventh chords in E minor
Adding the seventh gives a richer, more open sound. These are the seventh chords that fit E minor.
Key signature of E minor
E minor has 1 sharp: F#.
The relative major of E minor is G major: it uses exactly the same notes and chords, but feels brighter.
How to use the chords of E 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 E minor
Popular progressions written out in E minor:
- i-VI-III-VII: Em – C – G – D
- Andalusian Cadence (i-VII-VI-V): Em – D – C – B
- i-iv-v (minor blues): Em – Am – Bm
- i-VI-VII: Em – C – D
Scales to play in E minor
Related keys
FAQ
What chords are in the key of E minor?
The chords in E minor are Em, F#dim, G, Am, Bm, C, D, which are chords i – ii° – III – iv – v – VI – VII of the key.
What is the relative major of E minor?
It is G major. The two keys share exactly the same notes and chords.
How many sharps or flats are in E minor?
E minor has 1 sharp: F#.
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