A#m

Q: What notes are in the A#m chord?

The A#m chord (A# Minor) contains: A#, C#, E#. Its interval structure is shown above in the Theory section.

Q: How do I build A#m on the keyboard?

Take the root and add the remaining chord tones following the interval formula. The highlight shows chord content, while the inversion control changes which chord tone is in the bass.

Q: Which keys is A#m found in?

The chord acts as a diatonic degree in several keys — they are marked on the circle of fifths in the "Harmonic context" block.

Q: What can I substitute for A#m?

A substitution depends on harmonic function and voice leading, not only on shared tones. Computed options appear in the "Substitutions" block and should be checked in context.

A# Minor

Octaves

Musical context

ChordA# minorTriad

ArpeggioA# minorBroken triad

ScaleA# minor7 notes

KeyA# minorMinor key

ProgressionAndalusianSequence

How the chord relates to the scale, mode, key and progression.

Theory

General info

Full name: A# Minor
Symbol: A#m
Root: A#
Quality: Minor

Chord notes

1A#root

b3C#minor 3rd

5E#perfect 5th

Functions & resolutions

Typical function in key: viRelative tonic (vi)C# major
Stability / tension: Stable — can serve as minor tonic
Most common resolutions: FF Major D#mD# Minor G#G# Major
Main resolution: A#msource
FF Major
Minor chord A#m is a stable tonic in the minor key of the same root. Typical motion leads to the subdominant (iv) or dominant (V).
Other resolutions: A#msource
Deceptive resolution
F#F# Major
A minor chord can unexpectedly move to the major chord on the bVI degree — a deceptive-resolution effect.
A#msource
Modal resolution
G#G# Major
In Dorian and Aeolian modes, the minor chord is the tonic. Typical modal motion: i → bVII or i → iv.
A#msource
Jazz reharmonization
D#7D# 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.
A#msource
Functional resolution
D#D# Major
As the vi degree in major, a minor chord can move to IV or ii, creating subdominant motion.

Substitutions

Parallel: BbBb Major
Relative: C#C# Major
Mediant: F#F# Major

Features

Character: Minor, stable
Characteristic interval: Minor third (m3)
Description: The minor 3rd defines the minor quality, while the perfect 5th preserves the triad’s stability.
Application: ii, iii, vi in major
Ballads, rock, jazz, blues
Minor progressions