i–V

The i–V progression is the most fundamental tension-resolution pair in minor-key harmony. The contrast between the dark minor tonic and the bright major dominant creates a stark emotional push and pull. This two-chord oscillation has been the engine of dramatic music from Bach to modern film scores.

Pattern: i – V   Example in A Minor: Am – E

Genre: classical, rock   Difficulty: beginner

Choose a Key

A Minor Am – E E Minor Em – B B Minor Bm – F♯ F♯ Minor F♯m – C♯ C♯ Minor C♯m – G♯ G♯ Minor G♯m – D♯ D Minor Dm – A G Minor Gm – D C Minor Cm – G F Minor Fm – C B♭ Minor Bbm – F E♭ Minor Ebm – B♭

Song Examples