In minor keys, we find the same functions as in major keys. This table shows the type of chords found in each key:

	Major Key	Minor Key
I	Major chord	Minor Chord
IV	Major chord	Minor Chord
V	Major chord	Major chord1
II	Minor Chord	Diminished chord
VII	Diminished chord	Diminished chord2

(1) The V degree is a minor chord. But we need a major chord to have the dominant function. That is why we commonly alter the VII degree of the minor natural scale. This scale is known as the minor harmonic scale (see The Minor Scale).

(2) As in the dominant chord, we need to build this chord over the altered VII degree (minor harmonic scale) if we want the chord to have a dominant function.

Listen to the first phrase of Beethoven's Sonata op. 49 no. 1 in G Minor as an example of harmonic functions in minor keys. Note the use of F#, the VII degree of the G minor harmonic scale. The F# is needed to create the dominant function on V and VII degree chords:

Monica Alianello, piano. Recording courtesy of Piano Society and Monica Alianello.

 

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