cycle of fifths

English

Alternative forms

• circle of fifths

Noun

cycle of fifths (plural cycles of fifths)

1. (music theory) A sequence of bass notes at intervals of a perfect fifth lower than the previous note. In equal temperament the sequence repeats every twelve tones, forming a cycle.

   The composition modulates upwards through the cycle of fifths, eventually returning to the original key.

Translations

music theory: sequence of bass notes

• Czech: kvintový kruh m
• Finnish: kvinttiympyrä (fi)
• (deprecated template usage) {{trans-mid}}
• Icelandic: fimmundahringurinn m