What is the Circle of Fifths?

The Circle of Fifths is a visual representation of key signatures, displaying the relationships between different keys in Western music. It is structured like a clock, with each position around the circle representing a key. The keys are arranged in order of ascending fifths, which helps musicians understand how keys relate to one another. This relationship is fundamental for various musical concepts, such as chord progressions, modulation, and harmony.

As one moves clockwise around the circle, each key signature adds a sharp, while moving counterclockwise adds a flat. This makes the Circle of Fifths an essential tool for composers, arrangers, and performers in understanding the tonal landscape of music, allowing them to make informed choices when working within different keys. The clarity and ease of visualizing key relationships through this representation is why it is integral to music theory and practice.