Your Cut-out and Keep “Circle of Fifths” Spinner
We are delighted to provide you with this wonder gadget to print, make and use!
Step One: Download and print the files:
Step Two: Cut around the coloured circle.
Step Three: Cut around the base part and cut away the top area.
Step Four: Place the top over the base and secure with a pin/clip. (We suggest the split pin/paper fasteners). You can then spin around to reveal the chords of your key. Both major and minor.
or clip. (We suggest the split pin or paper fasteners.) You can then spin around to reveal the chords of your key, both major and minor.
Instructions for Use – (click to open)
How to use the Circle of Fifths Spinner
Find the key you are playing in.
See how many sharps or flats your piece has, then turn the spinner so the number of # or b’s lines up with the ‘Key sig” (inner of the circle). You will either be in the Major key directly above the outermost circle or its relative minor directly below.
You will start to know the difference between them after a while, but the easiest way to pick between them is by looking at the last notes or chord. This will be the Key Chord (also known as the Tonic)
Learn the relationship between all keys.
The relationship between Major and minor is shown all around the circle.
The “key sig” box will show the key signature they share.
Learn the order of # and b’s.
This order is shown at the bottom of the Spinner. This is ALWAYS the order without exception. So for example, if you have 2 #’s it will be F & C, never anything different.
Learn the chords relating to the key you are in.
Having turned the spinner to show the correct key, the cutaway will present the chords relevant to your key. Use the diagram for the major or minor key to find your chords. Remember we use Roman Numerals to describe chords. These directly relate to the degrees of each scale.
For example, in C Major:
C D E F G A B – Notes
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 – Scale degree
I ii iii IV V vi vii – Roman Numeral (Uppercase major, lowercase minor/diminished)