Avoiding Parallel 5ths In A Chord Progression

Personally I am not pro or against parallel 5ths.

Classical musicians think they are anathema, and Jazz players use them any day.

I think they have a very specific sound so… if you like it, use it, and if not don’t.

Learn it both ways so you have the option, I say.

The problem is when you get stuck. For instance I recently got asked an interesting question about a chord progression that is supposedly impossible to play without using parallel 5ths.

But is it now?

Well, I can’t blame him - that same chord progression stumped me too when I was learning - and I’ve seen several students getting stuck in that so…

Here’s how you avoid parallel 5ths in a seemingly impossible progression:

But of course, you can totally use parallel 5ths if you want to!

The prohibition on parallel 5ths is more of a stylistic thing than a hard-and-fast rule. Again, useful to know, but not to be followed dogmatically.

Here are five pieces of music (from pop to classical) that do use parallel 5ths to good effect. Because, if also Mozart does it, then why should we not?

Have fun!