The D Major scale comprises the notes D, E, F♯, G, A, B, C♯, and then circles back to D, completing the octave. This scale introduces two sharps (F♯ and C♯) to its structure, marking a further step into the use of accidentals for those learning music theory.

From the D major scale, we can construct various chords, each based on one of the scale’s seven notes, by adding the third and fifth notes above each root within the scale. The nature of the chord—whether it is major, minor, or diminished—is determined by the interval between the root and the third: a major third interval (4 semitones) creates a major chord, which has a bright and solid sound, while a minor third interval (3 semitones) forms a minor chord, offering a more introspective or somber tone.

The guitar chords that emerge from the D major scale are:

The relative minor of a major key shares the same key signature but starts on the sixth note of the major scale. For the D major scale, which includes the notes D, E, F♯, G, A, B, C♯, and then D again, the sixth note is B. Therefore, B minor is the relative minor of D major.