Gbmaj13
Gb Major 13
Octaves
Musical context
How the chord relates to the scale, mode, key and progression.
Theory
General info
- Full name
- Gb Major 13
- Symbol
- Gbmaj13
- Root
- Gb
- Quality
- Major 13
Chord notes
1Gbroot
3Bbmajor 3rd
5Dbperfect 5th
7Fmajor 7th
2Abmajor 2nd
6Ebmajor 6th
Functions & resolutions
- Typical function in key
- IV
- Stability / tension
- Stable — can serve as major tonic
- Unstable degrees
- 7F1Gbresolves up to the root
- Main resolution
- Major chord Gb 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
- Major, with major 7th and 13th
- Characteristic interval
- Major 7th (M7), 13th
- Description
- The major 7th and 13th extend the major triad into a seven-note harmonic structure.
- Application
- Final jazz cadences
- Orchestral arrangements
- Modern pop and neo-soul
Voicing & structure
Root position
v1Gb(Gb4)Bass
v2Bb(Bb4) M3from Gb
v3Db(Db5) m3from Bb
v4F(F5) M3from Db
v5Ab(Ab5) m3from F
v6Eb(Eb6) P5from Ab
Harmony
Compatible scales
All chord tones are contained in these scales — use them for improvisation.
This chord on guitar 🎸
See how Gbmaj13 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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