C Minor 6th Chord

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Formula R – ♭3 – 5 – 6

Summary

C Minor 6th is built from the notes C, E♭, G, A. The interval from C to E♭ is a minor 3rd (3 semitones), from C to G is a perfect 5th (7 semitones), from C to A is a major 6th (9 semitones). This chord contains 1 flatted note.

The minor 6th combines a minor triad with a major 6th, creating a bittersweet, sophisticated sound. It's less dark than a minor 7th and has an elegant, vintage quality common in jazz and bossa nova.

Theory

The minor 6th (R, ♭3, 5, 6) keeps the 6th natural despite the minor quality, which gives it its distinctive bittersweet character. This is actually the sound of the Dorian mode captured in a single chord. Key relationship: Cm6 contains the same notes as Am7♭5, just with a different root.

On the guitar

Works well as a tonic minor chord in jazz. Add the natural 6th to any minor chord shape. Central to bossa nova, film noir, and tango voicings.

Piano