C minor scale
The notes of the C minor scale
The C minor scale follows the whole, half, whole, whole, half, whole, whole pattern from its tonic. Its seven degrees, tonic highlighted: This is the natural minor form.
The chords of the scale
Harmonising each degree of C minor gives the chords that sound right together. This is the toolbox for an accompaniment in this key.
| Degree | Chord | Function |
|---|---|---|
| i | Cm | Tonic |
| ii° | D° | Supertonic |
| III | Eb | Mediant |
| iv | Fm | Subdominant |
| v | Gm | Dominant |
| VI | Ab | Submediant |
| VII | Bb | Subtonic |
Key signature
The key of C minor has 3 flats. Its relative shares exactly the same signature.
Going further
Two guides to go back over the basics: what a scale is, and how to read a key signature.
Neighbouring keys
On the circle of fifths, C minor shares most of its chords with its direct neighbours. The relative has exactly the same signature; the dominant and the subdominant differ by a single accidental.
Other keys
The interactive keyboard in the app
Hear the scale and its chords on the Music Hub playable keyboard, and spot them in your songs. Free, no account required.
Open Scales & keyboard →Frequently asked questions
What are the notes of the C minor scale?
The C minor scale is made of seven notes: C, D, Eb, F, G, Ab, Bb.
Which chords go with C minor?
The diatonic chords of C minor are: Cm (i), D° (ii°), Eb (III), Fm (iv), Gm (v), Ab (VI), Bb (VII). The three pillars of an accompaniment are Cm (i), Fm (iv), Gm (v).
What is the relative of C minor?
The relative major of C minor is E flat major: it shares the same key signature (3 flats) and the same notes, only the resting note changes.
How many accidentals are in the key of C minor?
The key signature of C minor has 3 flats. You build the scale from the tonic following the whole, half, whole, whole, half, whole, whole pattern.