Am(add11)

General info

Full name

A Minor Add11

Symbol

Am(add11)

Root

A

Quality

Minor Add11

Chord notes

Functions & resolutions

Typical function in key

viRelative tonic (vi)C major

Stability / tension

Stable — can serve as major tonic

Most common resolutions

DD MajorEE MajorF#mF# Minor

Main resolution

Am(add11)source

EE Major

Major chord A is a stable tonic. As tonic it doesn't require resolution, but in a progression context typically moves to IV or V.

Other resolutions

Am(add11)source

Deceptive resolution

F#mF# Minor

As the V degree, a major chord can defy expectations by moving to vi instead of I (deceptive cadence).

Am(add11)source

Modal resolution

GG Major

In modal context, a major chord can freely move to bVII, bIII, or bVI — characteristic of Mixolydian mode.

Am(add11)source

Jazz reharmonization

Amaj7A Major 7

In jazz, a major chord is enriched to maj7, 6/9, or add9 and can smoothly transition into a ii-V of another key (modulation).

Am(add11)source

Functional resolution

EE Major

As the IV degree (subdominant), a major chord can resolve to V or directly to I (plagal cadence).

Features

Character

Minor, with an added 11th and no 7th

Characteristic interval

Minor 3rd (m3), Perfect 11th without 7th (add11)

Description

The minor 3rd defines minor quality, while the perfect 11th adds a quartal extension without a 7th. b3 and 11 remain a whole tone apart.

Application

• Minor pedal textures
• Pop and alternative music
• Arpeggiated sonorities

Voicing & structure

Harmony

Compatible scales

All chord tones are contained in these scales — use them for improvisation.