AbmMaj11

General info

Full name

Ab Minor-maj 11

Symbol

AbmMaj11

Root

Ab

Quality

Minor-maj 11

Chord notes

Functions & resolutions

Typical function in key

ITonic (I)Ab major

Stability / tension

Stable — can serve as minor tonic

Most common resolutions

EbEb MajorDbmDb MinorGbGb Major

Unstable degrees

7G

1Ab

resolves up to the root

Main resolution

AbmMaj11source

EbEb Major

Minor chord Abm is a stable tonic in the minor key of the same root. Typical motion leads to the subdominant (iv) or dominant (V).

Other resolutions

AbmMaj11source

Deceptive resolution

EE Major

A minor chord can unexpectedly move to the major chord on the bVI degree — a deceptive-resolution effect.

AbmMaj11source

Modal resolution

GbGb Major

In Dorian and Aeolian modes, the minor chord is the tonic. Typical modal motion: i → bVII or i → iv.

AbmMaj11source

Jazz reharmonization

Db7Db Dominant 7

In jazz, a minor chord often serves as ii in a ii-V-I progression. Its "resolution" is the dominant a 4th up.

AbmMaj11source

Functional resolution

DbDb Major

As the vi degree in major, a minor chord can move to IV or ii, creating subdominant motion.

Features

Character

Minor, with major 7th, 9th and 11th

Characteristic interval

Minor third (m3), Major 7th (M7), 11th

Description

A minor triad is extended by major 7th, 9th and 11th; adjacent degrees create several controlled dissonances.

Application

• Film and soundtracks
• Experimental jazz
• Atmospheric compositions

Voicing & structure

Harmony

Compatible scales

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