Build harmonically correct chord progressions in any key. Select a root note, toggle major or minor mode, and instantly see all diatonic chords with Roman numeral analysis, chord notes, and popular progression templates.

How to Use

1. Choose your root key from the dropdown (C, D, E, etc.)
2. Select scale mode: Major for bright, happy progressions or Minor for darker, introspective ones
3. View the 7 diatonic chords that work in your key—no accidentals, all harmonically aligned
4. Click a preset progression button (I–V–vi–IV, ii–V–I, 12-bar blues, etc.) to see how those chords work together
5. The tool highlights the selected progression and explains the harmonic function of each chord

Diatonic chords are built from the notes of a single scale. Start in C major if you’re unsure. You can switch to any other key instantly—all Roman numerals and harmonic functions stay the same, only the actual note names change.

Understanding Results

In C major, the diatonic chords are C (I), Dm (ii), Em (iii), F (IV), G (V), Am (vi), and Bdim (vii°). These seven chords form the harmonic foundation of countless songs across all genres.

Troubleshooting

I don’t see any chords
Refresh the page and select a root key from the dropdown. If the page doesn’t load, check that JavaScript is enabled in your browser.

I clicked a progression but nothing happened
Try selecting a different root key first, then click the progression button again. The highlighting updates instantly.

The chord names don’t match my favorite song
Songs often use non-diatonic chords (borrowed chords, secondary dominants). Use this tool as your foundation, then identify additional chords by ear or with the Song Key Finder to confirm the key.

Can I transpose to a different key?
Yes—change the root key dropdown. All Roman numerals stay the same, only the note names shift. A progression in C major becomes D major, E major, etc.

Accuracy & Limits

This tool generates progressions using standard music theory formulas and diatonic scale construction. Results are 100% accurate for harmonic theory and widely used progression patterns.

Limitations:

• Focuses on triads (3-note chords), not extended harmony (7ths, 9ths, etc.)
• Shows diatonic chords only; real songs often use non-diatonic chords for color
• Doesn’t include modal interchange or borrowed chords
• No audio playback—chords are for reference and learning

For professional songwriting, combine this tool with ear training and experimentation.

Practical Tips

Start with I–IV–V or I–V–vi–IV
These progressions sound instantly familiar and work in almost every genre. Build from there by adding movement or surprise chords.

Use Roman numerals to transpose instantly
Instead of memorizing chord names, think in Roman numerals. A progression that sounds great in C will sound great in any key with the same harmonic structure.

Train your ear to hear progressions
Listen to songs and identify which progression they use. Start with pop ballads—many use I–V–vi–IV. Use the Interval Ear Training tool to strengthen your harmonic listening skills.

Experiment with minor key progressions
Minor mode creates introspective moods. Try i–VI–III–VII or i–iv–v for dramatic, cinematic progressions. Compare to major versions to hear the difference.

Combine progressions
Use different progressions for verse, chorus, and bridge. The Online Metronome helps you practice transitions between sections at tempo.

FAQ

Q: How do I choose the right root key for my song?
Listen to the lowest/strongest note in the bass, or determine it using the Song Key Finder. Start in C major if unsure—you can transpose to any key instantly.

Q: What are diatonic chords?
Chords built from notes within a single scale. In C major, the diatonic chords are C, Dm, Em, F, G, Am, Bdim. They blend together because they share the same parent scale.

Q: What’s the difference between major and minor mode?
Major sounds bright and happy. Minor sounds darker and introspective. Same root key produces different chord qualities—C major’s iii is Em (sad), but C minor’s iii is Eb major (brighter).

Q: How do I read Roman numerals?
Uppercase = major (I, IV, V). Lowercase = minor (ii, iii, vi). Diminished = lowercase with ° (vii°). In C major: I=C, ii=Dm, iii=Em, IV=F, V=G, vi=Am, vii°=Bdim.

Q: What are the most popular chord progressions?
I–V–vi–IV (pop ballads), ii–V–I (jazz), I–IV–V (blues), vi–IV–I–V (modern ballads), I–vi–IV–V (oldies), and iii–vi–ii–V (smooth jazz).

Q: Can I use diatonic progressions for any music genre?
Yes. Pop, rock, country, folk, jazz, classical—all use diatonic harmony as their foundation. Diatonic provides structure; adding non-diatonic chords creates surprise and color.

Q: How do I transpose a progression to a different key?
Roman numerals stay the same. Select a new root key—all chords shift proportionally while keeping identical harmonic function.

Q: What is functional harmony?
The idea that chords have roles: Tonic (home, stable), Subdominant (preparation, movement), Dominant (tension, forward motion). Understanding function helps you write progressions that feel resolved and intentional.

Privacy & Disclaimer

All chord calculations happen 100% in your browser. No data is sent to any server, stored in a database, or used for tracking. Close your tab and everything is cleared. This tool works in all modern browsers with JavaScript enabled.

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