Play the minor sixth chord on piano
The minor sixth chord (m6 or min6) combines a minor triad with a major sixth. This combination creates a sound both melancholic and sophisticated, highly valued in jazz.
Chord composition
| I | ♭III | V | VI |
| Root | Minor third | Perfect fifth | Major sixth |
| 0 | 3 | 7 | 9 |
Formula 1 - ♭3 - 5 - 6
Theory
The m6 chord adds a major sixth (9 semitones) to the minor triad. C m6 = C-E♭-G-A, A m6 = A-C-E-F♯. It often serves as a minor tonic chord in endings, offering a brighter alternative to m(maj7). The fifth can be omitted in compact voicings.
Play the minor sixth chord on the piano
Styles
M6 chord construction
Formula 1 - 3b - 5 - 6: minor triad + major sixth. Example Am6: A - C - E - F#. Tango, klezmer, minor jazz signature.
Learning
Tango: typical Im6. Minor jazz: Im(maj7) substitute. Klezmer, tangos, minor ballads.
Sixth chord inversions on piano
Sixth chords have 3 inversions (4 notes).
The 3 inversions
- 1st inversion: third in bass (3-5-6-1). Jazz swing, bossa nova.
- 2nd inversion: fifth in bass (5-6-1-3). Characteristic major second interval.
- 3rd inversion: sixth in bass (6-1-3-5). Vintage jazz walking bass, elegant endings.
Sixth inversions enrich jazz and bossa nova harmonic vocabulary on piano.
How to play
Characteristic Argentine tango. Minor jazz: resting Im6. Klezmer, Jewish music. Unique nostalgic color.