Key of D - The D Minor Scale

Notes in the D Minor Scale:

DEFGABbC

The key of D contains 7 notes: D, E, F, G, A, Bb, C.This minor key has a darker, more introspective quality perfect for emotional expression.

Chords in the Key of D

i
i
D minor
ii°
ii°
E diminished
III
III
F major
iv
iv
G minor
v
v
A minor
VI
VI
Bb major
VII
VII
C major

Common Chord Progressions

i - iv - v
Minor blues
i
D minor
→
iv
G minor
→
v
A minor
i - VII - VI - VII
Andalusian cadence
i
D minor
→
VII
C major
→
VI
Bb major
→
VII
C major
i - VI - III - VII
Natural minor
i
D minor
→
VI
Bb major
→
III
F major
→
VII
C major
i - iv - VII - III
Minor pop
i
D minor
→
iv
G minor
→
VII
C major
→
III
F major
D Minor Scale Pattern

The D Minor scale follows the pattern of W-H-W-W-H-W-W (natural minor scale).

Scale formula: D - E - F - G - A - Bb - C

Key signature: Same as its relative major

Understanding the Key of D

Scale Degrees

Each chord in the key is built on a scale degree. Roman numerals show the chord's position in the scale. Uppercase = major chords, lowercase = minor chords.

Tonic Chord

The i chord (D minor) is the tonic - the "home" chord that provides resolution and stability.

Dominant Chord

The v chord (A minor) creates tension that naturally wants to resolve back to the tonic.