These circle of fifths worksheets have been a huge hit–they’re one of the top most downloaded and shared worksheets on my website.
Piano teachers know that when students really understand the circle of fifths, they better understand all of their music theory, especially key signatures and chord progressions. And then when we take it to the next level and start applying the music theory, students can use the circle of fifths to have a ton of fun improvising and creating their own impressive songs at the piano.
To print any of these circle of fifths worksheets for free, just click on the image.
Circle of Fifths Worksheet with Treble Clef Key Signatures
These worksheets, which include a space for the students to draw in the key signatures, seem to be the most popular among piano teachers.
The blank squares inside the circle list the number of sharps and flats and students should write the name of the corresponding key in the square. Students then draw the sharps or flats on the treble clef staves located around the perimeter of the circle. It really helps students to practice both naming the keys around the circle of fifths, and to practice drawing the corresponding key signatures.
There is a colorful version that is visually appealing to students, and a black and white version that will help you save on ink.
Plain Circle of Fifths Worksheet
If you’d like to focus solely on the circle of fifths, these printables are right for you. Students simply go around the circle, filling in the name of each key.
The first time I have students do this, I like them to sit at the piano and place their right thumb on C. Then I have them move up five keys and write the name of the key they land on in the next wedge of the circle. We follow this process to complete the entire circle. I’ve found that it really helps kids better understand when they see it and physically move their hand by fifths.
I also like to periodically do challenges in my studio. I’ll give them a copy of this printout and then time students to see how quickly they can complete it. I’ll give small prizes to students who can meet the time goal, and this has been a fun way to motivate students to learn the circle of fifths.
Circle of Fifths Worksheet with Bass Clef Key Signatures
This worksheet functions the same as the treble clef version. Students write the name of the each key in the boxes located inside the circle, and then draw the corresponding key signatures on the bass clef staves located outside the circle.
I interchange the treble clef and bass clef versions so that students become proficient at drawing key signatures for both clefs.
Circle of Fifths Printables with Holiday Themes
If you happen to be visiting this page around Christmas or St. Patrick’s Day, you can use these fun holiday themed worksheets. My students always love it when we do holiday activities.
I’ve got a huge collection of music theory worksheets covering everything from rhythm, note names, music intervals, scales, ear training and more, as well as lots of holiday themed printables, so be sure to check those out while you’re here.
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Sherry says
Your circle of Fifths worksheets are great! Thank you!
Kristin says
Thanks, Sherry!
Gloria Jackson says
Wow…your circle of Fifth worksheets are great! Thanks!!
Kristin says
Thanks, Gloria! I use these a lot with my students. I’m glad they’re helpful for other teachers too!
Rebecca says
thank you SO much – what a useful worksheet – using with my GCSE students this year
PJ Hunter says
Thank you Gloria for publishing these very useful worksheets. I’m returning to piano after a number of years off and this is very helpful to me.
Barbara Lee says
My daughter’s AP Music Theory class used your signatures worksheet, and desperate to practice for the test in less than 48 hours, my daughter wished for a few blank copies. Was thrilled to find the worksheet here for her to practice with.
Kristin says
I’m so happy to hear that these were helpful, Barbara. I hope your daughter rocked her test!
Jessica says
This is just what I’ve been looking for. I didn’t know how to make a nice one on my own. Thanks Kristin!
Kristin says
You’re so welcome!
Janine says
Thank you appreciate the bass clef version for my cellists. hope you don’t mind but I added alto clefs to your version for my poor violists who are always clef neglected.
Cindy Cook says
Thank you so much for these ideas.
Nicky Underwood says
Thanks so much for sharing these! They are really visual which I think helps when learning the circle of fifths. I made my own hand drawn versions for my students but I love how they will be able to complete these and really think about the structure in a different way!
All of your teaching materials are fab so I’ll definitely print off a selection as a resource!
Kristin says
Thanks for your kind comment, Nicky!
Tresa Kirby says
Thank you for these worksheets. They are great!
Celia Brasfield says
This is amazing and EXACTLY what I was looking for. Thank you so much. Now I don’t have to create it myself! =)
Tamara says
These are great for teaching, reenfircing, and refreshing skills!