Bm(add11)
B Minor Add11
Octaves
Musical context
How the chord relates to the scale, mode, key and progression.
Theory
General info
- Full name
- B Minor Add11
- Symbol
- Bm(add11)
- Root
- B
- Quality
- Minor Add11
Chord notes
1Broot
b3Dminor 3rd
5F#perfect 5th
4Eperfect 4th
Functions & resolutions
- Typical function in key
- vi
- Stability / tension
- Stable — can serve as major tonic
- Main resolution
- Major chord B is a stable tonic. As tonic it doesn't require resolution, but in a progression context typically moves to IV or V.
- Other resolutions
- As the V degree, a major chord can defy expectations by moving to vi instead of I (deceptive cadence).In modal context, a major chord can freely move to bVII, bIII, or bVI — characteristic of Mixolydian mode.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).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
Root position
v1B(B4)Bass
v2D(D5) m3from B
v3F#(F#5) M3from D
v4E(E6) m7from F#
Harmony
Compatible scales
All chord tones are contained in these scales — use them for improvisation.
This chord on guitar 🎸
See how Bm(add11) looks on guitar.
Circle of fifths
Highlighted major keys contain this chord among their diatonic harmonies.
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Practice
Keyboard Trainer
Reinforce it in practice — play and name notes on the interactive keyboard.
Test yourself
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