Chord Progression Calculator

A chord progression is a sequence of chords played in a specific order that forms the harmonic foundation of a piece of music. Different musical styles often use characteristic progressions that help define their sound. For example, blues often uses a 12-bar pattern, while jazz frequently employs ii-V-I progressions.

Major progressions generally have a brighter, more uplifting sound and are built on the major scale. Minor progressions typically have a darker, more melancholic sound and are built on the minor scale. Minor progressions can use either natural minor (all chords from the natural minor scale), harmonic minor (raised 7th degree), or melodic minor scales.

Modal interchange is a harmonic technique where chords from parallel modes (scales that share the same tonic) are borrowed. For example, in a major key, you might borrow chords from the parallel minor scale. This creates interesting harmonic colors and can add emotional depth to a progression.

Extended chords include notes beyond the basic triad (root, third, and fifth), such as sevenths, ninths, elevenths, and thirteenths. They're commonly used in jazz and more sophisticated pop music to create richer harmonies. For example, a C major triad (C-E-G) could be extended to Cmaj7 (C-E-G-B) or Cmaj9 (C-E-G-B-D).

A tritone substitution is when a dominant chord is replaced by another dominant chord whose root is a tritone (three whole steps) away. For example, in a ii-V-I progression in C (Dm7-G7-C), the G7 could be replaced with D♭7. This creates a chromatic bass movement and adds harmonic interest while maintaining the function of the progression.