How to Memorize the Circle of Fifths

The circle of fifths is absolutely vital to the development of all well rounded musicians, but can be very daunting when anyone tries to memorize it.

Here are some great ways to memorize the circle of fifths.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Flash Cards
• Pen

1. Notice how the Major keys down the right side spell BEAD backwards (DAEB). Also notice how BEAD is spelled correctly down the left side. These patterns both start on the 3rd either sharp or flat. This will help you quickly memorize the pattern.

2. Focus on either the Major keys or minor keys at a time. This will keep you from being overwhelmed and becoming confused in the beginning.

3. Write down a key on one side of a flash card (i.e. Ab), then write out the number of sharps or flats on the back.

4. Test yourself with only Major keys, then only minor keys, and then mix them up.

5. Choose one card each day to keep with you and repeatedly look at it and say it out loud throughout the day.

6. Find a study buddy. A friend, family member, or classmate can be a great help when you are trying to memorize the circle of fifths. Test each other regularly and have a competition to memorize everything first.

Tips & Warnings

• With regular practice, most people have the circle of fifths memorized in just a few days!
• Don't forget to test yourself once in a while to make sure you haven't forgotten.

Resources

• Click here to print out the Circle of Fifths for FREE

[bigearthguru]

on 1/10/2010 Thanks for bringing that to my attention! I have changed the free circle of fifths print out to the corrected version. Thanks!

[jojoba999]

on 1/9/2010 The free downloadable Circle of Fifths contains an error - it mistakenly shows the B flat chord as containing an A flat (same as E flat) which it doesn't. Beware!

[shenandoah]

on 6/6/2009 I don't play any musical instrument but this was interesting to know and easy to read. I'll pass it on to some... aspiring musicians.