Chord
G 6 Chord
Interactive keyboard
Highlighted notes form this chord.
Notes
G · B · D · E
Root: G
Intervals
1 · 3 · 5 · 6
How it is built
This chord starts on G and applies the intervals 1, 3, 5, 6. The result contains 4 distinct pitch classes per octave.
Explore related combinations
Guide and musical context
About G 6 Chord
G 6 Chord contains G, B, D, E. Its sound is warm and stable, with the sixth softening the major triad.
Character and sound
Warm and stable, with the sixth softening the major triad.
Musical context and history
Sixth chords extend a major triad without the functional pull of a dominant seventh. They are common in traditional jazz, swing, classic pop and closing harmonizations.
How and where it is used
They are often used as an alternative to a plain major chord, especially on tonic harmony and endings.
In Theory view you can hear the pitch collection without depending on a specific fingering. Then switch to Piano, Guitar, Ukulele or Mandolin to see how the same notes are physically distributed on each instrument.
Harmonic and musical relationships
From G, the dominant is D, the subdominant is C and the relative minor is E. These relationships are useful starting points for progressions.
The formula on this page is 1 · 3 · 5 · 6 and, from G, produces the notes G · B · D · E.
Frequently asked questions
What notes are in the G 6 Chord?
The notes are G, B, D, E.
What is its interval formula?
The formula is 1 · 3 · 5 · 6.
How does it sound and what is it used for?
Warm and stable, with the sixth softening the major triad. They are often used as an alternative to a plain major chord, especially on tonic harmony and endings.
Can I view it on a specific instrument?
Yes. Use the selector near the top to switch between Piano, Guitar, Ukulele and Mandolin without changing the musical combination you are studying.