Secondary Chords (vi-ii-iii)

In a major key, the vi, ii, and iii chords are called the secondary chords. These are all the minor triad chords in the key.

Basic vi-ii-iii progression

Fifths apart

The relationships between the secondary chords are exactly the same as the relationships between the primary chords:

• The vi chord is the minor home.
• The ii chord is a perfect fourth above the vi (and a perfect fifth below).
• The iii chord is a perfect fifth above the vi.

The vi, ii, and iii chords are like a minor version of the I, IV, and V.

Practice progression

This progression includes a change between each of the three chords in both directions, so you can practice every combination of changes between them.

Practice chord changes with pentatonics

Once you have the chord changes down, practice playing the E-shape minor pentatonic over various secondary chord progressions. This diagram gives just one example. Use your ears and your creativity to come up with others.