ii
D minor
Predominant.
Circle of fifths chord progressions
See progression roots as a path around the circle.
Many functional progressions move by descending fifths. The circle makes patterns such as ii–V–I and I–vi–ii–V visually obvious.
circle of fifths chord progressioncircle progression chordscycle of fifths progressioncircle of fifths progression guitardescending fifths progression
ii–V–I
The basic jazz cadence traces a fifth-related root path.
In C major: D → G → C.
V
G dominant
Dominant.
I
C major
Tonic.
I–vi–ii–V
A longer functional cycle.
In C: C → Am → Dm → G, then back to C.
I → vi
Tonic family
A softer departure.
vi → ii
Cycle movement
Root relation supports the chain.
ii → V
Predominant to dominant
Strong setup for I.
Longer cycles
Extend the chain by fifth-related roots.
Jazz standards and classical sequences often use longer descending-fifth motion.
iii–vi–ii–V–I
Extended cadence
Adds two more steps before ii–V–I.
Secondary dominants
Temporary V chords
Strengthen each target chord.
Transpose
Any key
Use the circle to move the same structure.
FAQ
Quick answers about circle of fifths chord progression.
Use these answers as a reference, then explore the relationships interactively.
What is a circle of fifths progression?
A progression whose roots move through fifth relationships, often descending by fifths or ascending by fourths.
Is ii–V–I part of the circle of fifths?
Yes. Its roots move D → G → C in C major, a chain of fifth relationships.
What is a longer circle progression?
Examples include iii–vi–ii–V–I or turnarounds extended with secondary dominants.
ChordRevelation
Move from explanation to interactive harmony.
Change the key, compare voicings, follow voice leading and see the same idea directly on the fretboard.