E SIXTH - GUITAR
Open position
Bass position 7
Chord composition
| I | III | V | VI |
|---|---|---|---|
| Root | Major third | Perfect fifth | Major sixth |
| E | G# | B | C# |
ALL ABOUT THE E SIXTH CHORD
Chord Composition
The E Sixth chord is composed of 4 notes :
- E (Root)
- G# (Major third)
- B (Perfect fifth)
- C# (Major sixth)
These notes form an added sixth chord, giving a jazzy and sophisticated color.
How to play E Sixth on guitar
The sixth chord E Sixth adds the major sixth to the major triad, creating a sweet and jazzy sonority.
- Alternative to maj7: less tense than maj7, perfect for rest chords
- Vintage sound: heavily used in 30s-40s jazz and swing music
- Open voicings: sound particularly good in fingerstyle
The major sixth (9 semitones) creates a more stable consonance than the seventh, giving a joyful and light character.
Specific techniques
For 6th chords on guitar:
- Jazz arpeggios: highlight the added sixth
- Final position: excellent conclusion chord, less academic than simple major
- Tonic substitution: replaces I major for a softer ending
Common uses of E Sixth
The sixth chord brings a retro and sophisticated color:
- Final chord: sweet and jazzy conclusion of pieces
- Traditional jazz: omnipresent in swing and bebop
- Bossa nova: characteristic color of Brazilian style
- Country and folk: adds sophistication to simple progressions
Musical styles
Jazz swing: preferred rest and conclusion chord.
Bossa nova: defines the soft Brazilian sound.
Country: adds a sophisticated touch.
Vintage R&B: 50s-60s color.