Key of D minor
Key signature: 1 flat (B♭). Scale: D, E, F, G, A, B♭, C. Chords: Dm, Edim, F, Gm, Am, B♭, C.
Chords in D minor
Each scale degree has a triad and a four-note seventh chord. Tap a chord for the guitar shape.
Capo tip: on guitar, put a capo on fret 3 and play the shapes of B minor – then 3 of the main chords are easy open shapes (2 without a capo).
The D minor scale
Related keys
Common progressions in D minor
| Progression | Chords | Generator |
|---|---|---|
| Minor ii–V–i | Em7b5 – A7 – Dm7 – Dm7 | Open in generator |
| Andalusian cadence | Dm – C – B♭ – A | Open in generator |
| Epic minor (i–VI–III–VII) | Dm – B♭ – F – C | Open in generator |
| Minor cadence (i–iv–V–i) | Dm – Gm – A – Dm | Open in generator |
| Minor ballad (i–VII–VI–VII) | Dm – C – B♭ – C | Open in generator |
Major keys
Minor keys
Frequently asked questions
How many sharps or flats are in D minor?
D minor has 1 flat (B♭). Its relative major is F major, with the same key signature.
What chords are in the key of D minor?
The triads built on the scale degrees: Dm, Edim, F, Gm, Am, B♭, C. The main chords used most often: Dm, Gm, B♭, C.
Why is the V chord often major in minor songs?
In natural minor the v chord is minor (Am), but harmonic minor raises the 7th, which makes it major and pulls harder back to the tonic. That's the classic minor cadence.
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