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Circle Progression – Definition
A circle progression is a chord progression in which the roots move by descending fifths (or ascending fourths). It is one of the most common and effective harmonic patterns in Western music.
What is a Circle Progression?
In a circle progression, each chord naturally leads to the next through root movement by a perfect fifth. A common example is Am7 – Dm7 – G7 – Cmaj7, where each chord prepares the following one and creates a strong sense of forward motion.
Circle progressions appear in classical music, jazz, pop, gospel, and many other styles. They are widely used to establish tonality, connect harmonic ideas, and support smooth voice leading.
How is a Circle Progression used in piano playing?
Pianists frequently encounter circle progressions in accompaniment, improvisation, and song arrangements. Recognizing this pattern makes it easier to anticipate chord changes and understand how harmonic movement is organized.
Practising circle progressions in different keys also develops chord fluency, voice leading, and confidence when accompanying songs or improvising.