Understand
Chords in a Key: Numerals and Cadences
Roman numerals, primary chords and how phrases end.
Class code
GREARoman numerals
Number the chords built on each scale degree. Capitals are major, lower case minor, and a small circle marks diminished.
In C major: C=I Dm=ii Em=iii F=IV G=V Am=vi Bdim=vii
The primary chords
I, IV and V carry most songs on their own, with vi added for colour. Learn them in a few keys and you can accompany an enormous amount of music.
Cadences
A cadence is how a phrase closes.
- Perfect: V to I - finished
- Imperfect: I (or another chord) to V - unfinished
- Plagal: IV to I - amen
- Interrupted: V to vi - a surprise turn
Try it
Test yourself