Chord Progression Generator

Diatonic Chords

In any key, seven chords are formed by stacking thirds from each scale degree. In a major key, this produces three major chords (I, IV, V), three minor chords (ii, iii, vi), and one diminished chord (vii°). These diatonic chords are the building blocks of most chord progressions.

Roman Numeral Notation

Chords are labeled with Roman numerals indicating their scale degree. Uppercase numerals (I, IV, V) denote major chords; lowercase (ii, iii, vi) denote minor chords. This system lets you describe progressions independently of key — for example, I–V–vi–IV works in any major key.

Mood & Progressions

Different chord sequences evoke different emotions. Major-key progressions with I and IV chords tend to sound happy or uplifting. Minor-key progressions with vi and iii create sad or melancholy feelings. Suspended and diminished chords add tension and darkness.

Audio Playback

This tool uses the Web Audio API to synthesize chords. Each chord is built from its component notes played simultaneously as sine waves tuned to equal temperament (A4 = 440 Hz). The tempo control adjusts how many beats each chord receives during playback.

Nashville Number System

The Nashville number system uses Arabic numerals (1, 2, 3...) instead of Roman numerals. It is widely used in Nashville studios and live performance settings for its simplicity, allowing musicians to quickly transpose songs to any key.

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