Gm(add11)

G Minor Add11

Octaves

Musical context

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

Theory

General info

Full name
G Minor Add11
Symbol
Gm(add11)
Root
G
Quality
Minor Add11

Chord notes

1Groot
b3Bbminor 3rd
5Dperfect 5th
4Cperfect 4th

Functions & resolutions

Typical function in key
iiiMediant (iii)Eb major
Stability / tension
Stable — can serve as major tonic
Most common resolutions
Main resolution
Gm(add11)source
DD Major
Major chord G is a stable tonic. As tonic it doesn't require resolution, but in a progression context typically moves to IV or V.
Other resolutions
Gm(add11)source
Deceptive resolution
EmE Minor
As the V degree, a major chord can defy expectations by moving to vi instead of I (deceptive cadence).
Gm(add11)source
Modal resolution
FF Major
In modal context, a major chord can freely move to bVII, bIII, or bVI — characteristic of Mixolydian mode.
Gm(add11)source
Jazz reharmonization
Gmaj7G 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).
Gm(add11)source
Functional resolution
DD 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

Root position

v1G(G4)Bass
root
v2Bb(Bb4)m3from G
v3D(D5)M3from Bb
v4C(C6)m7from D

Harmony

Typical progressions

Compatible scales

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

This chord on guitar 🎸

See how Gm(add11) looks on guitar.

Explore

Circle of fifths

Highlighted major keys contain this chord among their diatonic harmonies.

CAmGEmDBmAF#mEC#mBG#mF#D#mDbBbmAbFmEbCmBbGmFDmGmajor
Relative key
Dominant
Subdominant
Key signature
1 sharp (F#)

Practice

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Frequently Asked Questions