Beginner Guitar Lesson OnLine
Chord Theory 103
Know How They Are Formed Before You Start Strumming
Here is another rule. There is always a "Minor" key associated with each Major Key and the terminology for the minor key is the "Relative Minor" or that it is closely related to the Major Key.
In the case of C Major the Relative Minor key is A Minor. This key name for the Minor Scale is (9) 1/2 steps (or 4-1/2 Steps) from the "Root" or "C". This is the rule for every Relative Minor Key.
Chords in the Key of "A minor", Which is Relative to C Major Would be:
From Am to Dm is (5) 1/2 steps or (2-1/2) whole steps.
From Dm to E7 is (2) 1/2 steps or 1 whole step.
This applies to both Major and Minor Scales
This works out the same as the Major Key so memorize that formula:
If you count up (9) 1/2 steps (or 4-1/2" Steps) from the root of the A Major scale you will arrive at F#.
Therefore F#m is the Relative key of A Major. Take a look a the Bottom Diagram.
Chords in the Key of "F# minor", Which is Relative to A Major Would be:
From F#m to Bm is (5) 1/2 steps or (2-1/2) whole steps.
From Bm to C#7 is (2) 1/2 steps or 1 whole step.
This applies to both Major and Minor Scales
Recommended Publications
