Chord Progression Tutorial
Learn to recognize common chord progressions by ear using Roman numeral analysis.
How to Play
The Chord Progression game plays a sequence of chords and asks you to identify the progression using Roman numerals.
Listen
A sequence of chords plays automatically. Use the replay button to hear it again.
Analyze
Identify each chord's function within the key using Roman numeral analysis.
Select
Choose the correct progression from the answer buttons.
Improve
Your stats track accuracy and streaks. Increase difficulty for longer, more complex progressions.
What Is a Chord Progression?
A chord progression is a sequence of chords played in order. Progressions are the harmonic backbone of music — they create the sense of movement, tension, and resolution that makes music feel like it's going somewhere.
We use Roman numerals to describe chord progressions relative to a key. This way, the same progression can be played in any key:
| Numeral | Scale Degree | Type | In C Major |
|---|---|---|---|
| I | 1st (Tonic) | Major | C |
| ii | 2nd | Minor | Dm |
| iii | 3rd | Minor | Em |
| IV | 4th (Subdominant) | Major | F |
| V | 5th (Dominant) | Major | G |
| vi | 6th | Minor | Am |
| vii° | 7th | Diminished | Bdim |
Common Progressions
I - IV - V - I
The most fundamental progression in Western music. Creates a strong sense of departure and return. Found in countless folk songs, hymns, and rock music.
I - V - vi - IV
The "pop progression." Used in hundreds of hit songs from "Let It Be" to "No Woman No Cry" to "Someone Like You."
ii - V - I
The signature jazz progression. Creates smooth voice leading and a satisfying resolution to the tonic.
I - vi - IV - V
The "50s progression" or "doo-wop" changes. A timeless cycle heard from oldies to modern pop.
Difficulty Levels
Beginner
- 3–4 chord progressions
- Key of C major only
- I, IV, V chords only
Intermediate
- 3–5 chord progressions
- Multiple keys
- Adds ii, iii, vi chords
Advanced
- 3–5 chord progressions
- All keys
- All diatonic chords including vii
Tips for Success
- Listen for the bass note — The lowest note of each chord helps identify the root and therefore the Roman numeral.
- Feel the tension — The V chord creates tension that wants to resolve to I. Learn to hear this pull.
- Major vs minor — Upper-case numerals (I, IV, V) are major chords; lower-case (ii, iii, vi) are minor. Listen for the mood difference.
- Start with I-IV-V — Master the three primary chords first. They're the foundation of most progressions.
- Sing the bass line — Singing the root of each chord helps internalize the movement between them.
Ready to Identify Progressions?
Start training your ear with the interactive game!