Lesson
Sixth Chords
Major and minor 6th chords are versatile chords that musicians and composers utilize to add depth, emotion, and sophistication to their compositions. These c...
C Major 6th
- Spatial
- Major triad with M6
- Degrees
- 1 3 5 6
- Symbols
- C6, CM6, Cmaj6
- Active Formula
- 1 3 5 6
C Major 6th selected
Major and minor 6th chords are versatile chords that musicians and composers utilize to add depth, emotion, and sophistication to their compositions. These chords possess distinct qualities and evoke different moods, allowing for a wide range of musical expressions. In this chapter, we will explore the characteristics, construction, and applications of major and minor 6th chords.
Let’s start with major 6th chords. They consist of a Major Triad and the 6th scale degree, providing a bright and uplifting quality. They contribute to openness, joy, and optimism. On the other hand, minor 6th chords offer a more introspective and melancholic tone. They’re built upon a minor triad with the addition of the 6th scale degree, evoking longing, nostalgia, and mystery.
Both major and minor 6th chords find applications in various genres. Major 6th chords add sophistication and richness in jazz, pop, and R&B. Minor 6th chords create a soulful atmosphere in jazz, blues, folk, and singer-songwriter compositions.
Considering their role in the harmonic context is essential. They can establish a tonal center as tonic chords, create tension as subdominant or dominant chords, and lead to other chords in a progression.
In conclusion, major and minor 6th chords offer emotional possibilities, from uplifting optimism to introspective melancholy. They enrich compositions across genres and styles.
6th Chord Formulas
| Chords | Major Scale Degrees |
|---|---|
| Major | 1 3 5 |
| Major 6th | 1 3 5 6 |
| Minor | 1 b3 5 |
| Minor 6th | 1 b3 5 6 |
| Chords | Symbols | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| C Major 6th | C6 | CM6 | Cmaj6 | C∆6 |
| C Minor 6th | Cm6 | Cmin6 | C-6 |