How are the notes spelled?

Each note of a seven-note scale uses a different letter, so sharps and flats always match the key. A chord is spelled up from its root by intervals.

What is the difference between natural, harmonic and melodic minor?

Natural minor uses the key signature. Harmonic minor raises the 7th. Melodic minor raises the 6th and 7th going up.

Which chord symbols can I type?

Major, minor, dim, aug, sus2, sus4, 6, m6, 7, maj7, m7, m(maj7), m7b5, dim7, 9, maj9, m9 and add9, with a slash bass such as C/E.

Can I play it on my computer keyboard?

Yes: keys A to K play the white notes and W, E, T, Y, U the black notes, while the focus is not in a text box.

Scale and chord finder

Pick a root and a scale or chord to see its notes on the stave and the keyboard, and hear it.

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Root

Type Clef

Or type a chord symbol

About this tool

Choose a root and a scale, mode or chord to see its notes spelled correctly (E flat major has A flat, not G sharp), drawn on the stave in any clef and lit on the keyboard while the piano plays them. You can also type a chord symbol such as Cm7, F#dim7 or Bb/D. Scales include the major and three minors, the seven modes, pentatonics, blues and whole-tone; chords run from triads to sevenths, sixths and ninths.

Tips

Play a chord one note at a time to hear each interval in it.
If a choice needs triple sharps, try the same sound under its other name.

FAQ

How are the notes spelled?: Each note of a seven-note scale uses a different letter, so sharps and flats always match the key. A chord is spelled up from its root by intervals.
What is the difference between natural, harmonic and melodic minor?: Natural minor uses the key signature. Harmonic minor raises the 7th. Melodic minor raises the 6th and 7th going up.
Which chord symbols can I type?: Major, minor, dim, aug, sus2, sus4, 6, m6, 7, maj7, m7, m(maj7), m7b5, dim7, 9, maj9, m9 and add9, with a slash bass such as C/E.
Can I play it on my computer keyboard?: Yes: keys A to K play the white notes and W, E, T, Y, U the black notes, while the focus is not in a text box.