D Minor 6th Chord

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Formula R – ♭3 – 5 – 6

Summary

D Minor 6th is built from the notes D, F, A, B. The interval from D to F is a minor 3rd (3 semitones), from D to A is a perfect 5th (7 semitones), from D to B is a major 6th (9 semitones).

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