Cm6/9
C Minor 6/9
Octaves
Musical context
How the chord relates to the scale, mode, key and progression.
Theory
General info
- Full name
- C Minor 6/9
- Symbol
- Cm6/9
- Root
- C
- Quality
- Minor 6/9
Chord notes
1Croot
b3Ebminor 3rd
5Gperfect 5th
6Amajor 6th
2Dmajor 2nd
Functions & resolutions
- Typical function in key
- ii
- Stability / tension
- Stable — can serve as minor tonic
- Main resolution
- Minor chord Cm 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 minor chord can unexpectedly move to the major chord on the bVI degree — a deceptive-resolution effect.In Dorian and Aeolian modes, the minor chord is the tonic. Typical modal motion: i → bVII or i → iv.In jazz, a minor chord often serves as ii in a ii-V-I progression. Its "resolution" is the dominant a 4th up.As the vi degree in major, a minor chord can move to IV or ii, creating subdominant motion.
Features
- Character
- Minor, with 6th and 9th
- Characteristic interval
- Minor third (m3), 6th, 9th
- Description
- The minor 3rd defines the minor quality, while the major 6th and 9th extend the triad without a 7th.
- Application
- Final minor chord in jazz
- Neo-soul and funk
- Substitute for plain minor
Voicing & structure
Root position
v1C(C4)Bass
v2Eb(Eb4) m3from C
v3G(G4) M3from Eb
v4A(A4) M2from G
v5D(D5) P4from A
Harmony
- Typical progressions
Compatible scales
All chord tones are contained in these scales — use them for improvisation.
This chord on guitar 🎸
See how Cm6/9 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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