Music is based on number patterns. Convert the chords in the major scale to Roman numerals and you can see these patterns across genres of music. Most music problems can be solved by finding patterns.

In this video, I break down the Roman numeral analytical procedure in order to reveal how easy this system works and can quickly improve your music making skills. One advantage to this system is the Roman numerals allow you to easily move a song or chord progression to a different key, because they describe the function (purpose) of a chord; basically how a chord works in a chord progression.

Let’s say, for example, you’re singing a song that is a bit out of your range and you need to move the key down from C to Bb. If you know the chord changes to the song is a simple I-IV-ii-V progression, you could move the one chord down a whole step from C to Bb and then match the other chords with the Roman numerals. You’ll get the same sound, just in a different key. In other words, this system allows musicians to choose the best key for singers.

In the video you’ll also hear what it sounds like to play a chord progression using chords outside the major scale. Roman numerals/chords are provided, bottom right corner.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=S1i7YrFKoWw