Circle of Fifths: Everything You Need to Know

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  • เผยแพร่เมื่อ 24 ธ.ค. 2024

ความคิดเห็น • 2.5K

  • @BradHarrison
    @BradHarrison  ปีที่แล้ว +70

    Take private lessons online with me! Trumpet, brass, theory, composition & arranging, improvisation, or whatever musical/life coaching you’d like to work on. More information at www.bradharrison.ca/lessons

  • @christiano9819
    @christiano9819 3 ปีที่แล้ว +3774

    I appreciate the taupe/beige background. It is more calming on my eyes and less harsh than a bright white screen that feels overwhelming while I’m trying to study this lol

  • @chrishamilton4999
    @chrishamilton4999 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1281

    My guess is that it will take me about a year to absorb most of this. Everything moves from seemingly elementary to complex is a very short time. thank you very much for doing this for the music community.

    • @brassholio
      @brassholio 2 ปีที่แล้ว +212

      That's a very mature way of looking at it. Even when I was at university it would take me that long to really comprehend what I was learning and it wasn't until I graduated that I was able to practically apply everything I'd learned into my playing. Even longer to be able to do it well. That was 15 years ago and I'm still learning from my colleagues from new experiences. Music is one of those things that the more you learn, the more you realise you have to learn. It can be daunting but luckily it's a live long endeavour.

    • @josephkalish3364
      @josephkalish3364 2 ปีที่แล้ว +36

      It doesn't help that he speaks so fast. Playing it over and over is of help though.

    • @phillipdonnelly6430
      @phillipdonnelly6430 2 ปีที่แล้ว +22

      @@brassholio Morale of the story...start young.....if you're too old......listen. Is that it. Because after 2 years....I haven't even got my head around any of this completely. Or should I forget music theory and just play what I can. I started piano at 65. Have I just been wasting my time!?!

    • @brassholio
      @brassholio 2 ปีที่แล้ว +72

      @@phillipdonnelly6430 I don't think you're wasting your time at all. I was lucky that I started at 6, but there are prodigy type musicians who are way above my level and always will be. That doesn't mean I can't have a fulfilling and rewarding career. There's always going to be someone better than you, but that doesn't mean that you can't get an amazing amount of satisfaction with whatever you choose to do with your music. The fact that you're even approaching this sort of level after only 2 years is admirable. To me, music is for everyone. We're not in the 18th century where only the noble were taught, we're better than that and we can all share in it together. We're not in competition, there's no reason that we can't share in it for pure joy and learning. Keep going.

    • @BradHarrison
      @BradHarrison  2 ปีที่แล้ว +112

      Learning some scales and chords and beginning to recognize patterns will probably make learning pieces a lot easier in the medium-long term. And every time you absorb something new, it will feed understanding of other related concepts. But of course, you should pursue your own goals for your own satisfaction. Good luck!

  • @ATthemusician
    @ATthemusician 3 ปีที่แล้ว +2141

    Something notable is that if you take a key, let's say G which has 1 sharp, and look at Gb, it has 6 flats.
    A key signature and its flattened counterpart have sharps/flats that always add up to 7.
    C has 0 sharps while Cb has 7 flats,
    E has 4 sharps while Eb has 3 flats,
    D has 2 sharps while Db has 5 flats, etc.

    • @adamflory8473
      @adamflory8473 3 ปีที่แล้ว +76

      Wow cool observation!

    • @jettalton2762
      @jettalton2762 3 ปีที่แล้ว +47

      Thanks for sharing! I think I saw Victor Wooten mention this in one of his talks, recommend you check it out, it's very interesting!

    • @sweeeetteeeeth
      @sweeeetteeeeth 3 ปีที่แล้ว +45

      this is SO CLUTCH!!! for the longest time i've always thought of major and minor scales in terms of their half step intervals, or, more specifically, there are half steps between the 2nd and 3rd and 5th and 6th notes in a minor scale and half steps between the 3rd and 4th and 7th and 8th in a major scale. what you've observed deepens and crystallizes my understanding of those intervals tremendously. thank you! time for some modulation!!

    • @birmingham0613
      @birmingham0613 3 ปีที่แล้ว +8

      "flatted"

    • @jacklynreed3677
      @jacklynreed3677 3 ปีที่แล้ว +7

      Thank you for this, and i mean that dude

  • @hambugg
    @hambugg ปีที่แล้ว +294

    incredible how i've been playing piano for 20 years, I've taken and passed 10 state certified music levels, passed an advanced college course in jazz theory, and only now do I feel like I understand the circle of fifths. what the hell. You're awesome

    • @BradHarrison
      @BradHarrison  ปีที่แล้ว +29

      Excellent! Glad this was able to bring some things together for you. There’s no doubt your background, training, and experience helped massively though. This is all very overwhelming for a lot of people.

    • @MrBubbyG_Official
      @MrBubbyG_Official 8 หลายเดือนก่อน +3

      You sound like a very interesting person. How are you doing? What are you up to now?

    • @humblehombre9904
      @humblehombre9904 8 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

      At least you were able to tell the class how great you are. Geez…

    • @SuperChad1313
      @SuperChad1313 2 หลายเดือนก่อน

      me too fam

    • @lily.sparkle3646
      @lily.sparkle3646 หลายเดือนก่อน

      You just have to find what makes it click for you

  • @jarnoromo2988
    @jarnoromo2988 4 วันที่ผ่านมา +1

    Man I love the fact that you added "frighteningly named" when talking about those super weird chords. It removes a lot of the anxiety I would've felt if you wouldn't have said it.

  • @johnlong8082
    @johnlong8082 3 ปีที่แล้ว +421

    I learned more here in 10 minutes than I did in a year of music lessons at my school. Thank you.

    • @EnslaveTheWorld
      @EnslaveTheWorld 2 ปีที่แล้ว +19

      You should stop dozing off in class :D

    • @johnlong8082
      @johnlong8082 2 ปีที่แล้ว +22

      @@EnslaveTheWorld
      You obviously never knew my music teacher, he was hopeless. Lol

    • @jonathanandrew2909
      @jonathanandrew2909 2 ปีที่แล้ว +3

      @@johnlong8082 he had an entire year curriculum to fill up (or drag on) for his paycheck lest he be viewed as not having anything to do.

    • @BradHarrison
      @BradHarrison  2 ปีที่แล้ว +28

      Never attribute to malice what can be explained by incompetence. Not to drag on John’s music teacher, just saying. All the respect to teachers in general, but some of them are not the best either.

    • @standardofexcellence
      @standardofexcellence 2 ปีที่แล้ว +3

      They will never teach you what you really need to know

  • @lightwarrior3697
    @lightwarrior3697 ปีที่แล้ว +41

    Man you broke this down so much easier than my music courses.

  • @adikickass84
    @adikickass84 3 ปีที่แล้ว +605

    I've always found parallels between music, painting, and science in the sense that the infinite complexity of it all is produced by combinations of a small set of basic primary elements. The way you explained it in this video puts everything into perspective. Also, I spent close to half an hour trying to figure out that stairs diagram before I finally gave up lol. Thanks man, your videos are the gift that keeps on giving.

    • @goldenlamb777
      @goldenlamb777 3 ปีที่แล้ว +8

      I can relate . I’m an artist, also a biochemist. Learning only now how to play. Circle of fifth is my culprit.

    • @HiggaionSelah_EWFMG
      @HiggaionSelah_EWFMG 3 ปีที่แล้ว +3

      it's because the Arts & sciences and Life are truly infinite like God who created them all ❕✝️
      ....there is ultimately nothing mysterious about infinity in the knowledge of God , except to keep learning for infinity....
      th-cam.com/play/PLotPfw-ygPSUrJCsXjcr_b4N76Id6Zp5j.html

    • @ponolepono2165
      @ponolepono2165 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      How am I even Understanding what @Dr Blue said🤔
      Ah ha!Word Smith well put n said @Dr Blue 😅👌

    • @adikickass84
      @adikickass84 3 ปีที่แล้ว +15

      @@ponolepono2165 heheh thanks bro I try. I guess it's something we all understand intuitively. You know, like how mixing red and blue produces purple, mixing sweet and salty gives you savory, and playing a C note with an E note gives you a sound that's completely different than the 2 notes by themselves. I've always found the chemistry of how our senses work really fascinating. And to think we didn't even invent any of this shit, it just exists in the universe and we're discovering it. Pretty amazing.

    • @よしみ-x5j
      @よしみ-x5j 3 ปีที่แล้ว +7

      @@adikickass84 Maybe you will be interested in "The Glass Bead Game". It's a novel by fantastic writer, central motive is exactly mixing music and science. It's about Main character's personal development and career in a civilisation of high culture where philosophy, art and science are very close to each other and are the most important things.

  • @SomeoneUnimportant-j3o
    @SomeoneUnimportant-j3o 5 วันที่ผ่านมา +1

    Brushing up on my theory after many years of not using this, I have to say this video was a huge help . Thank you!! :)

  • @younghofftv
    @younghofftv ปีที่แล้ว +4

    I’m 28 and been playing music for a while but just recently cared about learning music theory. This stuff is awesome. Blows me away every time 🙏🏼

  • @Jugem16
    @Jugem16 4 ปีที่แล้ว +246

    I'm getting back into music after a looooong time away from it. Knowing how lacking I was in theory, finding this video serves as a perfect reintroduction for me. Brilliant resource. Thank you!

  • @dust.8179
    @dust.8179 4 ปีที่แล้ว +19

    If i didn't watch this, i would've failed class, this man deserves more subs.

  • @DinoNuggies4665
    @DinoNuggies4665 3 ปีที่แล้ว +18

    I've watched Piano Pig for a long time, he taught me just about everything I know, and this video just strapped it all together. Now I just need to memorize the circle, practice the licc around the circle, learn how to read sheet music, and I'm a full out musician.

  • @chrisrones671
    @chrisrones671 9 หลายเดือนก่อน +2

    I've always had trouble understanding this concept, but OH MY WORD did this make it so much easier to understand. I'll definitely be back to watch more of this

  • @kummer45
    @kummer45 28 วันที่ผ่านมา +1

    This is simply fascinating and beautiful. It’s operationally coherent and profound. I can’t thank enough when experts shows the complete complexity and techniques of the subject. It’s clean and precise.

  • @stautbertfernandes
    @stautbertfernandes 3 ปีที่แล้ว +5

    Proof that im getting better at music theory is that everytime i watch this video i learn something new.. I understand the frst half of the video

  • @dawsonzentz2078
    @dawsonzentz2078 2 ปีที่แล้ว +114

    I just started learning music theory and this just absolutely BLOWS my mind. I’m currently a premed student in my junior year and am playing guitar/learning theory as a hobby. Basically just doing anything music because I love music so much. I spent about 3 hours on this 11 minute video just soaking up every piece of info here and this is by far the best video I’ve come across about this topic. I can not thank you enough

    • @gartyqam
      @gartyqam ปีที่แล้ว +2

      i'm sorry but if you're a premed, then you have to give up your hobby if you ever get accepted into medical school

    • @dawsonzentz2078
      @dawsonzentz2078 ปีที่แล้ว +18

      @@gartyqam update: I gave up premed to focus more on the hobby 😂

    • @BradHarrison
      @BradHarrison  ปีที่แล้ว +5

      Whoa! Big update! How are you feeling about it?

    • @dawsonzentz2078
      @dawsonzentz2078 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      @@BradHarrison feeling pretty good. Since the initial comment, I’ve learned a ton about music theory and have made a LOT of music. It’s become such a relaxing thing to do and I use Logic Pro to make all my music. I’ve released a few instrumental tracks under the name “Dawson Zentz” on streaming platforms and I’m just really enjoying the process of it all. But a lot of it started with this video so I appreciate it a TON!!!!!

    • @suryakiran3085
      @suryakiran3085 ปีที่แล้ว

      @@dawsonzentz2078😆😆

  • @mrjack465
    @mrjack465 ปีที่แล้ว +5

    I've been a bedroom musician for a long time and most of my knowledge was just based on experience. I've heard this term before but this was really helpful and super insightful. Thanks for helping an old dog learn new tricks!

  • @johnwayneherman
    @johnwayneherman ปีที่แล้ว +1

    BEST CIRCLE presentation for understanding MUSIC! I've played multiple instruments since 1970 but not theory. Your presentation explains everything! Forget all others....

  • @vivianreaves5747
    @vivianreaves5747 2 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

    FINALLY! Someone has FINALLY explained the circle so I understand it. Music reading, writing, understanding of why written music is written as it's written and playing are much easier now. THANK YOU!!!!!

    • @BradHarrison
      @BradHarrison  2 หลายเดือนก่อน

      Excellent! Glad it clicked for you!

  • @modmeddon
    @modmeddon 3 ปีที่แล้ว +166

    As a visual learner, I've always been able to grasp a new concept, skill or task when demonstrated and explained exactly as you have. Thank you for this exceptional video that finally turned the "lightbulb" on in my brain!

    • @BradHarrison
      @BradHarrison  3 ปีที่แล้ว +21

      Excellent! That was the plan!

  • @Earth-Worm-Tim
    @Earth-Worm-Tim 2 ปีที่แล้ว +14

    This is undoubtedly the best explanation of the circle of fifths I’ve ever seen. I am self taught and been playing guitar off and on for 25 years. Most theory videos require some degree of abstract prerequisite knowledge (reasonably so); however, this often translates to very abstract explanations. But this video just tied together more in 11 minutes than I’ve been able to do alone in 11 years. Thank you so much for creating and sharing this video!

  • @magusx1125
    @magusx1125 ปีที่แล้ว +9

    This is by far the best explanation of the circle of 5ths I've ever seen. Thank you for this!

  • @Mariposa_46
    @Mariposa_46 3 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

    I have had piano lessons for years, but was only taught how to read music. I just discovered music theory and have fallen in love with the circle of fifths. Your tutorial has gone into incredible depth and it will take me quite some time to digest it all. Thank you so much for this concise and detailed set of information!. Love it!

  • @anthonynunyabizness9989
    @anthonynunyabizness9989 2 ปีที่แล้ว +25

    I've watched many of these explanations and without a doubt this has been the best. Perfectly simple and straight forward. Clearly spoken and not a word wasted. Thank you sir this is my new go to circle of fifths lesson.

  • @shaunoleary8740
    @shaunoleary8740 2 ปีที่แล้ว +10

    I'll have to watch this 700 more times but I'm fascinated so thank you for making it!

  • @kirkr1961
    @kirkr1961 2 ปีที่แล้ว +4

    I've probably watched 50 different videos about the circle of fiths and none of them explain it the way you did. This video answered my question that I have had for a long time. Thank you so very much.

  • @ivannvillanueva6294
    @ivannvillanueva6294 2 ปีที่แล้ว +3

    The most condensed lecture on the subject i have seen. Thank you for the simplification

  • @Winkkin
    @Winkkin 10 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

    Ive never hear the Circle explained so completely and concisely. Thank You!!

  • @lindaginn7714
    @lindaginn7714 3 ปีที่แล้ว +48

    Like everyone else, I appreciate how thoroughly, yet concisely you explain everything in a manner that is easy to understand. The visuals and illustrations are excellent! I don't have anything to add to what others have commented on. This comment is mainly to appease the algorithm gods. 🙂 Thank you for all your efforts to make these videos!

    • @BradHarrison
      @BradHarrison  3 ปีที่แล้ว +3

      Haha. Thanks for the support! Glad you enjoyed and let’s hope the algorithm smiles up on me. ;-)

    • @BradHarrison
      @BradHarrison  2 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      Check my channel for the videos on major scales and on key signatures. I think that will clear everything up for you! Good luck!

    • @empireman1077
      @empireman1077 2 ปีที่แล้ว +4

      I had piano lessons in the 1990s, I was in my late 20s
      I never was told about this by my teacher, however, I wanted to learn the basis skills
      I could write down the music on manuscript form, I could read it and learned my own instrumentals in a few months
      You can be self taught, but to be a real talented musician this is essential to study in my opinion 👍🎹🎼

  • @broda769
    @broda769 2 ปีที่แล้ว +6

    You weren't kidding with everything you need to know. I'm subscribing because you explain this so clearly

  • @gregjacyszyn8992
    @gregjacyszyn8992 ปีที่แล้ว +4

    Trying to explain the circle of fifths to my sister, and I wanted something that I connected well with. This was perfect…and you surpassed what I could have conveyed in the first few minutes.
    The connections with the dominant chords was great - but then you also showed (and played) the musical movement just one step in a different direction…then some examples of moving farther away…etc. really helped me connect the circle with what I hear in my head with key changes.
    Then you blew my mind with the chord diagrams! I’m a big visual aid guy - and those examples of the chord types and they’re counterparts was - well - eye opening to say the least!
    I learned a ton in theory classes through some amazing teachers…and sometimes another way of seeing things can really open things up!
    Thank you!

    • @BradHarrison
      @BradHarrison  ปีที่แล้ว

      Thanks for the kind words! So glad you enjoyed!

  • @ejun251
    @ejun251 3 หลายเดือนก่อน +2

    I feel my brain growing from watching this. I can't believe we aren't taught this in basic music classes in school.

    • @BradHarrison
      @BradHarrison  3 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

      Ha! Some classes cover this stuff! But some teachers don’t like theory, or aren’t very good at teaching it. Glad you enjoyed the video!

  • @joannpelas5101
    @joannpelas5101 9 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

    My music teacher just taught me how to use the circle of fifths to learn my scales that have the same finger patterns as the key of C. I'm a new piano student but I'm an older student. It really helped.

  • @mariacholi3054
    @mariacholi3054 ปีที่แล้ว +3

    I have been learning music theory for 3 years now (im 12) and nobody has explained anything as good as you did! Thanku very much!!

  • @Phyclone
    @Phyclone ปีที่แล้ว +3

    Holy crap this is extremely useful. For years two particular friends of mine kept telling me about it on my our music journey(last decade or so) and the last few months I have been getting more into putting things in key and whatnot because I am self taught and I start hearing how it all is starting to make more sense and now seeing this. I can see in time I can come up with my own little formula for this to help me become a better musician. Thank you for this.

    • @BradHarrison
      @BradHarrison  ปีที่แล้ว

      Excellent! So glad you found it helpful. All the best!

  • @johnw614
    @johnw614 ปีที่แล้ว +4

    This has been the most enlightening lesson on the circle of 5ths that I have found on youtube. Thank you for sharing your insight, and your ability to clearly explain.

  • @emmanuelokebugwu2076
    @emmanuelokebugwu2076 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    I'm a visual/kinetic learner. What you've done with this video is truly phenomenal. Thank you so much.

    • @BradHarrison
      @BradHarrison  ปีที่แล้ว +2

      Excellent! So glad you found it useful!

  • @MrMurphyum
    @MrMurphyum ปีที่แล้ว +21

    Incredible that this knowledge is thousands of years old, yet still hard to learn despite of how obvious it sounds after the explanation.
    I'll have to watch it a bit more times again.
    Nice animation and the sounds helps a LOT!
    Thank you!

    • @MattiaManzini
      @MattiaManzini 10 หลายเดือนก่อน +2

      Actually less than a thousand years old

  • @charlesarmstrong5292
    @charlesarmstrong5292 3 ปีที่แล้ว +9

    Teaching my grandson how the Circle of Fifths hangs together was possibly going to be difficult. Now I have your excellently detailed video. Many thanks.

  • @fezilebrianwitbooi1229
    @fezilebrianwitbooi1229 ปีที่แล้ว +4

    I was taught this in college 5 years ago but I just realized I had no clue. Thank you sir.

  • @BrianWaltmans
    @BrianWaltmans 2 ปีที่แล้ว +3

    learning this for the first time is like I'm a child again discovering the sky is blue. Thank you for creating such a good lesson

  • @vivfaydonahue687
    @vivfaydonahue687 ปีที่แล้ว

    Thank you Brad... just happened on your video of the Circle after learning in a jazz piano theory (college) class that #1 for any serious jazz player to know "inside & out" are the 4-note chords played in the 2,5,1 progression around the Circle, going BACKWARDS. As I worked thru my own practice and understanding of
    2 = minor 7th chord
    5 = dominant 7th chord
    1 = major 7th chord
    I soon realized it applied the same to
    any starting point on the Circle, with "1" always becoming the new key/tonic. (going backwards always) By extending to SIX positions (keytones) backwards on the Circle =gives you ALL the progressions needed for any one scale - i.e. the complete progression becomes 7,3,6 2,5,1.
    Further, the actual names of these SIX chords are intelligently spelled in the English language, to be easily remembered so musicians can easily play by ear.
    B,E,A,D,G,C, = key of C + sharp keys
    Add a flat sign to every letter for
    keys on the left, or flat side of the Circle. The next step for me was to
    APPLY all this... which brought me back to inversions. Enough for now, if you're still reading my thoughts, there is even a God-sent "PATTERN" to intelligently & easily apply to ANY key, because the SAME interval patterns apply making muscle-repetition memory a snap.
    Blessings and kudos to you.

  • @Fur_LeRuf_20
    @Fur_LeRuf_20 ปีที่แล้ว

    For the first time in my life!! I feel like I finally understand you circle of fifths!! Oh how far we’ve come!!

  • @TheDizzleHawke
    @TheDizzleHawke 2 ปีที่แล้ว +5

    The circle of fifths came naturally to me, and it’s the number one tool I use in live performance. As a dueling piano player playing all requests, I often have to wing it on songs I haven’t rehearsed, but have heard enough times to have a basic feel for them. I rely heavily on the circle of 5ths for this.

  • @dancingfrogable
    @dancingfrogable 2 ปีที่แล้ว +28

    This is great! I have a couple of degrees in music and this is the first time I've seen anyone work the circle of fifth like this. Thanks 🎻

    • @BradHarrison
      @BradHarrison  2 ปีที่แล้ว +3

      High praise! Glad you enjoyed!

  • @musicsimplyexplained
    @musicsimplyexplained ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Best visualisation of the concepts and patterns of circle of fifth I have seen so far.

  • @idealcookie.
    @idealcookie. 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    My old music teacher said I needed to learn this inside out for a uni audition... so now I'm binge watching your videos!!! Thank you!

  • @avipatable
    @avipatable 3 ปีที่แล้ว +22

    I have just watched 3 of your videos and all have been incredibly insightful, watchable and easy to understand. Thank you very much.

    • @BradHarrison
      @BradHarrison  3 ปีที่แล้ว +5

      Excellent! Glad you enjoyed!

  • @ramonsaldana7417
    @ramonsaldana7417 2 ปีที่แล้ว +10

    Like facets of a diamond, each new perspective reveals more of its beauty.
    Having played the mandolin (by ear) for about three years, I "discovered" the Circle of Fifths around age nine when I picked up a guitar for the first time and compared the two analytically.
    That curiosity made music theory and transposition a breeze as I played alto/bari sax and piano in my teenage years.
    Thanks for posting this awesome mini-lecture.

  • @walangkausap630
    @walangkausap630 ปีที่แล้ว +4

    Thank you so much for explaining the techniques for me to better understand the circle of fifths and music theory in general! I am a choir vocalist and part instrumentalist for the choir and I always wanted to learn about how to read notes and what scale should I use to apply it into playing it. I am very grateful.

  • @ciaradundas9723
    @ciaradundas9723 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    I've been playing for almost 30 years.... but you just literally exploded my brain. I'm over here drooling lol

    • @BradHarrison
      @BradHarrison  ปีที่แล้ว

      Haha. Fantastic! Mission accomplished.

  • @guillaume1306
    @guillaume1306 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    This is the best video I have seen on the subject. It covers so many fundamental concepts and it’s explained in such a simple way.
    Harmony is to music what geometry is in math. This is so beautifully explained. Thank you for taking the time to make this video.

  • @MazRixx
    @MazRixx 2 ปีที่แล้ว +6

    this is one of the best explanations I have ever seen for this - very well done!

  • @bachouvenn430
    @bachouvenn430 4 ปีที่แล้ว +865

    Exactly when i need this, you release this.
    Are you reading my mind?

    • @BradHarrison
      @BradHarrison  4 ปีที่แล้ว +117

      There are many benefits to understanding the wonders of the circle of fifths.

    • @jonathankirkpatrick9493
      @jonathankirkpatrick9493 4 ปีที่แล้ว +10

      Dude what? I was just watching a tutorial on yt about the circle of Fiths when this came up on my feed

    • @dankuchar6821
      @dankuchar6821 4 ปีที่แล้ว +16

      The creepy algorithm knows all!

    • @braydenchen3833
      @braydenchen3833 3 ปีที่แล้ว +5

      thank you

    • @averychilco
      @averychilco 3 ปีที่แล้ว +14

      @@BradHarrison Where have you been all my life. For 50 years I have said screw music theory, wish you were around in the first grade. Absolutely loved the illustrations and explanations, you are the greatest and you have no contemporaries; everyone is just students compared to you. Thanks so so much. (all in 11 mins may I add, simply amazing).

  • @AlmostMonumental27
    @AlmostMonumental27 2 ปีที่แล้ว +4

    Understanding the Circle Of Fifths is the key to good improvisation in a jazz context, and in comprehending the scope and structure of any well-composed piece of music, classical or popular. It's like a device that has descended from paradise to give us understanding of the music we play, listen to and enjoy.

    • @BradHarrison
      @BradHarrison  2 ปีที่แล้ว

      Lots of great jazz players and improvisers didn’t know anything about theory. But I agree, for most of us mortals, understanding this stuff can be incredibly useful. Cheers!

  • @slapeters2004
    @slapeters2004 ปีที่แล้ว +7

    I’ve been playing the piano for 41 years now, with the last 25 of those years semi-professionally in numerous bands. This is most likely the best explanation of the Co5 that I’ve ever seen. In the band I’m in now, those of us that were classically trained understand changeups on the fly and revert to a number system for quick transposition to get us going in the right key. You can always tell the musician who plays strictly by ear because they’ll have to listen along before they jump back in to the song. Music theory and foundation is so critically important if you want to be any good at all. The problem is, no one wants to work for it and they pick an instrument and just think their fingers are going to magically start playing the instrument. I have a hard time with musicians wanting to break into the performance scene, but end up sucking because they lack the foundation. Just like anything.

    • @BradHarrison
      @BradHarrison  ปีที่แล้ว +2

      Thanks for the kind words! I would never want to gatekeep and say this information is necessary to be a good musician when there are plenty of great musicians who don’t know than stuff. But it’s also insanely useful for communication and learning and anyone who thinks this stuff is too complicated or isn’t useful should maybe reconsider. Every craft/discipline has theory.

    • @larasheilan4985
      @larasheilan4985 ปีที่แล้ว

      @@BradHarrison May I ask what software do You use to make all this stunning videos?

  • @gexenterthegecko252
    @gexenterthegecko252 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    im just a high schooler trying to make stuff that sounds cool and i’m glad i found this you explained it all pretty well for my brain to understand

  • @VOICEOFQUEENS
    @VOICEOFQUEENS 6 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

    The best video out there in the circle of 5th ⭕️

  • @c.m.1311
    @c.m.1311 ปีที่แล้ว +4

    Great video!!! Would have made such a difference for me when I was studying music in college a thousand years ago :) Such a helpful review as I dust off this corner of my brain. Thank you!!

  • @yaffamae483
    @yaffamae483 3 ปีที่แล้ว +6

    I really do hope TH-cam is paying you well because what you taught us is invaluable. Thank you so much.

  • @cathygoltsoff9615
    @cathygoltsoff9615 3 ปีที่แล้ว +12

    Thank you for the wonderful reference tool! I recently love to play double stops on the violin and now the cello. I read music and play by ear. I love to play chords on my stringed instruments it’s almost like learning a new instrument or like a child with a new toy. Thank you for making this video.

  • @jesseserranoll39
    @jesseserranoll39 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    I feel like an IDIOT.. I have played for over 40 years (saxophones) and always played by ear. I have a pretty sharp technical mind and love math, but I felt like my head was going to EXPLODE listening to this! I have learned to read sax music decently in recent years (thought hard to process anything faster than 8th noted without playing along with the sound). I play with a lot of groups and when they tell me the key or ask what key I want to play a song in, I just have to say "don't confuse me with the key.. start playing and I will get it".
    I was given a circle of 5ths by a trumpet player who did her best to help me understand how I could use it, but it was not until this video that the light came on.. THANK YOU! I was able to grasp the concept... when someone announces the "Concert Key" (which I guess is what all "C" instruments play in, guitar, piano, bass, etc..) on my B Flat Saxes, I go clockwise 2 keys on the circle and on my E flat horns it's 3 clockwise. I cannot begin to express how that simple grappling hook on to the slippery, insurmountable monolith that is music theory makes me feel there is hope for the first time in my life! Of course, now I have to start learning my scales so I will know what being in the key of "B" (or whichever key) means for me.
    Also that fact that the "C" is always on top and Sharps or flats increase Clockwise or Counter is a revelation. For some reason I always conceptualized movement in the circle.
    Perhaps I shouldn't reveal my ignorance so publicly, but I may not be the only one that has been helped in such a dramatic (for me) manner. I will definitely be watching this more than once (though not today!) to increase my understanding. Thank you again. If you have a Patreon page or something similar I will gladly make a contribution!

  • @gerardc4588
    @gerardc4588 5 หลายเดือนก่อน +2

    This is the best and most complete explanation of the circle of fifths that I have found, thank you 👍✌

  • @santom13
    @santom13 3 ปีที่แล้ว +38

    This is beyond fascinating. Fantastic work. Reminded me one of Albert Einstein quotes on how one cannot explain “any” concept using simple terms unless he/she doesn’t understand it fully. You love what you teach and it is evident in your videos. Thanks a lot. Good luck.

  • @shinymetalvids
    @shinymetalvids ปีที่แล้ว +3

    Fantastic, I’ve studied a lot of music theory from videos and books, yet you always have new insights to the whys and hows!

    • @BradHarrison
      @BradHarrison  ปีที่แล้ว

      Excellent! Glad you enjoyed!

  • @GregHarradineComposer
    @GregHarradineComposer 2 ปีที่แล้ว +4

    One of the best and most succinct explanations of the circle of fifths that I've come across. Thanks Brad!

  • @lyntedrockley7295
    @lyntedrockley7295 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    This is BY FAR the best video on The Circle of 5ths. So many are just confusing and in some instances wrong, but this is the video I was going to have to make, except now I dont need to, and this is much better! THANKYOU!!!!!!!
    I even learned stuff!!
    I have hesitated to recommend to others to watch videos on the Circle of 5th because they are genrally so poor but this is going on the MUST WATCH list for all students.

  • @ihca.s
    @ihca.s 9 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

    Just started learning music theory a few weeks ago and i swear the longer this video went the more my jaw dropped😭 i have a lot of learning to do, lol. This really helps, thanks!

    • @BradHarrison
      @BradHarrison  9 หลายเดือนก่อน

      It’s a lot of info. But the circle isn’t the beginning of learning this stuff, it’s the intersection of a bunch of topics. Check this playlist out for any topic you need to brush up on. I’ve already covered basically every topic referenced in the circle of fifths video good luck! th-cam.com/play/PLDaNGknQ_wTh3eXyjB0smdEYSvqa-wJ1_.html

  • @lewissaundersguitar
    @lewissaundersguitar ปีที่แล้ว +48

    And just as I became aware and surprised that I hadn’t heard it yet, ‘the lick’ appeared.

    • @wyattstevens8574
      @wyattstevens8574 6 หลายเดือนก่อน +2

      "...'this pattern'..."

  • @joanrusche6918
    @joanrusche6918 2 ปีที่แล้ว +20

    The circle of fifths has always baffled me. Thank you for explaining it. In the past I just memorize which keys had flats or sharps and which were the fourth and fifth of the tonic. I learned a lot in this video.

    • @vivfaydonahue687
      @vivfaydonahue687 ปีที่แล้ว

      Interesting to read one of the comments from a pro - the "dueling pianist " regarding his "mental" use of the Circle in performance. My experience too.. from a vocalists standpoint: When hired to sing jazz Standards in local country club gigs with the Jack Burke Trio, he would only ask me "if I knew the lyrics" & listen to me sing a few notes -(quietly to Jack at the piano) - and we were off and running for a great time.. the base player jumped right in, as did the percussion. When asked how he did that, Jack said "the great Standards follow a given circle of harmony" ...it never changes if you want to sing the tune higher or lower. When I took up the piano after Jack passed on, it all worked beautifully as I got a handle on the simplicity of the Circle. As the great Bill Evans, in one of his many interviews shared his story of learning the Classical "rote" lessons when young.. but in his 20s after his US Service, he moved in with his parents in New Jersey, bought a piano and spent over 2 years in a "watershed" self-learning mode, so he could play with the best in NY and without any music. Awesome, this life-learning endeavor to play the beautiful harmonies I too "hear in my head."

  • @karenstott7980
    @karenstott7980 2 ปีที่แล้ว +159

    my brain hurts.

    • @qing8580
      @qing8580 7 หลายเดือนก่อน +4

      me too

    • @donnabella1018
      @donnabella1018 6 หลายเดือนก่อน +4

      Me 3

    • @BsYtHandle
      @BsYtHandle 5 หลายเดือนก่อน +9

      Like leg day for your brain.

    • @acceptfilms9415
      @acceptfilms9415 4 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

      You’re ok. Think about this- what does google maps look like ? Flat right? Circles are bad good luck

    • @RRobin-ou9lr
      @RRobin-ou9lr 3 หลายเดือนก่อน +2

      Mine too

  • @Nabruj7
    @Nabruj7 5 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

    The best and most thorough explanation I’ve seen.
    Tremendous content to help people!
    Excellent.
    Great job!!!!

  • @Pawl0solidus
    @Pawl0solidus ปีที่แล้ว +1

    This is the best explanation of the circle of fifths I’ve ever seen!

  • @anprabh1
    @anprabh1 2 ปีที่แล้ว +12

    All I've learned are the basic scales and chords on the piano, and staff notations (that I have mostly forgotten) on the piano, but from a mathematician's POV, this was quite interesting!

  • @xRaid3n
    @xRaid3n 4 ปีที่แล้ว +5

    Best video I've seen on this yet!!

  • @ireneruthwall3677
    @ireneruthwall3677 2 ปีที่แล้ว +5

    This description is really great and interesting - need this to proceed in your musical journey.

  • @Cantbuyathrilll
    @Cantbuyathrilll 6 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

    This is truly eye- & mind-opening because one can follow the sensible and graphic explanation.

  • @psmurali5318
    @psmurali5318 3 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

    Namaskaar sir.Excellent teaching about Circle of 5 th.I really got all the information reg.chords& notes in one explanation using this topic.Thank you once again

  • @MightyMonk360
    @MightyMonk360 3 ปีที่แล้ว +9

    Hey Brad, I found your channel today I’d like to think it’s fate everything you’re teaching on here is changing the lives of many aspiring musicians. I’d like to encourage you to keep posting more often. We need you on this journey.

    • @BradHarrison
      @BradHarrison  3 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      Thanks for writing! The videos take a long time to make and it’s been a bonkers busy year. But I’ve got two more coming soon!

  • @ddrsteen
    @ddrsteen 3 ปีที่แล้ว +57

    This was fascinating. I think this got me closer to knowing what I don’t know than I’ve ever been before. One wonders if musicians like Donald Fagen-known to be familiar and conversant with theory-push aside their theoretical knowledge as they seek the music in their head. Obviously such musicians have immediate access to that theoretical knowledge, but I’m guessing the sound drives their genius more than the math.

    • @ralisgroffen
      @ralisgroffen 3 ปีที่แล้ว +5

      Imagine making music if you are deaf, like Beethoven at his end

    • @laskartrece
      @laskartrece 3 ปีที่แล้ว +3

      Intuition is our capacity for direct knowledge of complicated things... I agree. All these elements and connections are representations of what is already there, in existence. Marvelous use of the left brain, though... Thank you.

    • @gillypen2698
      @gillypen2698 2 ปีที่แล้ว +4

      @@ralisgroffen incredible genius to be able to ‘hear’ the notes in his head!

    • @terrylaw18
      @terrylaw18 2 ปีที่แล้ว +3

      This is an interesting question. Also comments about Beethoven being deaf. Was just talking about that recently. I find that I can conceptualize or"hear" music in my mind. Kind of understand how he could compose 9th while deaf. Problem I have is translating what's in the mind to keyboard. That's where a sound knowledge of theory is valuable. I find videos like this very helpful and my abilities are gradually expanding. I believe that the theory enabled Fagin to bring his ideas to life. But technique is also a vital component.

  • @andrewboland1062
    @andrewboland1062 2 ปีที่แล้ว +4

    Even though I'm only playing guitar 5 months I feel like I've learned a couple of years knowledge (I'm learning the circle of fifths at the moment at my guitar lessons) I find it very interesting how you can mix the notes to create different chords

  • @zelalemshibeshi5344
    @zelalemshibeshi5344 10 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

    What a wonderful teacher you are! Thank you for all your efforts to help people. This is a great resource.

  • @barriereid9244
    @barriereid9244 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    I am as far away as it possibly can be from a music teacher and your tutorials are enlightening and instructive. Many thanks.

  • @crucommu1
    @crucommu1 4 ปีที่แล้ว +11

    This is at the very least one of the most illuminating video on music theory ever produced.
    This reaches into the universe of music and opens it up so we can clearly see how music relates to everything in our world. This inspires me to learn more and more. Thanks for the lift!

    • @BradHarrison
      @BradHarrison  4 ปีที่แล้ว +3

      Thanks so much! This is one of the nicest comments I’ve ever received!

  • @galaxylucia1898
    @galaxylucia1898 ปีที่แล้ว +5

    Sir you are doing the lord’s work with these videos!!!!!😂 This was such an excellent breakdown. With there was a “love and subscribe” button because your content is truly 🥇🥇🥇

    • @BradHarrison
      @BradHarrison  ปีที่แล้ว

      Glad you enjoyed! Thanks for the kind words!

  • @lastdaysguitar
    @lastdaysguitar 3 ปีที่แล้ว +52

    This is a wonderful explanation of the circle of fifths - the only thing I would have elaborated was that the circle can also be used as a key for modal playing. For example if I want to play all the major modes of C if I travel 6 steps to the left (F, Bb, Eb, Ab, C#/Db) and one step to the right from C (G) I have identified each of the major scales that all use the note of C - these scales contain the notes for all the major modes of C, i.e.: F major scale notes using C root = C Mixolydian; Bb major scale notes using C root = C Dorian; etc. and the same idea/key can be used for other types of interval scales such as harmonic minor, and others.

    • @M0odez
      @M0odez 3 ปีที่แล้ว +4

      The pattern is actually much more than just this; the order in which the diatonic modes (I believe this is what you meant by "major modes") appear actually moves from the brightest (Lydian) to the darkest (Locrian). If you take the 7 notes going round clockwise from C (C, G, D, A, B, F#), you have the lydian which is the brightest diatonic mode. If you move this selection set one step round anticlockwise, the F# becomes an F and you have C Ionian (or C major) which is the second brightest mode. If you do this again, the B becomes Bb and you have notes of the C mixolydian scale, which again is less bright than Ionian. The full order is:
      Brightest
      C Lydian: C, G, D, A, E, B, F#
      C Ionian (major): F, C, G, D, A, E, B
      C Mixolydian: Bb, F, C, G, D, A, E
      C Dorian: Eb, Bb, F, C, G, D, A
      C Aeolian (minor): Ab, Eb, Bb, F, C, G, D
      C Phrygian: Db, Ab, Eb, Bb, F, C, G
      C Locrian: Gb, Db, Ab, Eb, Bb, F, C
      Darkest

    • @lastdaysguitar
      @lastdaysguitar 3 ปีที่แล้ว

      @@M0odez yeah, that's just another perspective of what I said. I've never been a fan of the "Brightest" and "Darker" explanation of the modes - as the feel and flexibility of them goes much deeper than that.

    • @M0odez
      @M0odez 3 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      @@lastdaysguitar I was trying to rephrase it in a way that helps derive the modes in a more natural ordering - I got really confused by your derivation and I think relying on all major scales to derive modes is one of the fundamental causes of confusion around modes (common questions arise like "if it's just F major starting on C, how is it different to F major?"). Even if you find the words darker/brighter too narrow, it's hard to deny that overall they do a decent job of describing the way modes are overhwelmingly applied, and as the terms are only describing the modes relative too each other, they are much better than terms like "dreamy" for Lydian, "Jazzy" for Dorian etc. This is why I love the pattern; not only does it make the modes easier to learn (you can read them off the circle of fifths, rather than needing to know all your major scales by heart) but it also gives you some basic guidance as to how to apply them. As with all music theory, it's just a guide on what might be best to try at any point. if you have a metal riff using Aeolian and it just isn't evil enough, swapping that 2 to a b2 to bring it into Phrygian is very likely to push the riff in the direction you want it.

    • @ramonsaldana7417
      @ramonsaldana7417 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Thanks for your comment that started an enlightening discussion.
      Maybe that's why we call it "theory" instead of "law."

    • @JamesJones-rx5mn
      @JamesJones-rx5mn 2 ปีที่แล้ว

      You both explain it perfectly, this is how I think he should have taught it, because it adds the teaching of the modes

  • @MightyMonk360
    @MightyMonk360 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    No need to plead the fifth, we can all agree this is the best and most informative video on the circle of fifths.

    • @BradHarrison
      @BradHarrison  2 ปีที่แล้ว

      Thanks! Glad you found it helpful!

  • @kama7021
    @kama7021 2 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    As a horn student who really struggles with transposition this is going to be very useful! I’ve heard about the circle of fifths before but I’ve never heard transposition explained this way before. Thanks!

  • @tedfelsberg5322
    @tedfelsberg5322 3 ปีที่แล้ว +5

    Learned this years ago, but it seems so much clearer, now. Some of that is due to your excellent line upon line-presentation. Thanks, so much.

  • @tonyjj2782
    @tonyjj2782 4 ปีที่แล้ว +46

    You add the lick , I add the like

  • @Threshroge
    @Threshroge 4 ปีที่แล้ว +20

    4:57-this next part blew my mind

    • @BradHarrison
      @BradHarrison  4 ปีที่แล้ว +3

      Neat, huh?

    • @carterfelderva
      @carterfelderva 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      @@BradHarrison You were having too much fun, Brad. ;)

  • @apumpkin6287
    @apumpkin6287 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    got recommended to me a day before my music exam, learned more than in the last 3 years I had music, great work 👍🏻

  • @jaideepdahiya2736
    @jaideepdahiya2736 3 หลายเดือนก่อน

    Beautifully explained!! the 12 months, the 12 signs of the zodiac, and the 12 stations of the Moon and of the Sun. The ancients recognized 12 main northern stars and 12 main southern stars. And 12 notes!! there is something that we all don't know.

    • @BradHarrison
      @BradHarrison  3 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

      Probably should be 13 months if we’re aligning with the phases of the moon. But I think 12 is just a super useful number because it’s relatively small and manageable but has a lot of divisors. It’s just a really useful number. Fascinating that the circle of fifths fits so nestle into 12 though! Anyway, glad you enjoyed the video!

  • @BuyoganExtendedStories
    @BuyoganExtendedStories ปีที่แล้ว +2

    I need a chart like this. This is very important to me as a musician.

  • @chengkahing0515
    @chengkahing0515 4 ปีที่แล้ว +14

    This is some next level music theory lesson......Keep it up

  • @chrisclarkepiano9335
    @chrisclarkepiano9335 4 ปีที่แล้ว +4

    5:54 is the most satisfying sound ever!!

  • @lana-ana-ana
    @lana-ana-ana 6 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

    5:00 I kind of understood the harmony part when I was messing around with a keyboard but didn't know why it sounded so good, it's good to finally know what it actually meant!

  • @DarkForcesStudio
    @DarkForcesStudio ปีที่แล้ว

    That was crazy. It's my life's mission to understand this. This really helped. Thanks.