Gb

Q: What notes are in the Gb chord?

The Gb chord (Gb Major) contains: Gb, Bb, Db. Its interval structure is shown above in the Theory section.

Q: How do I build Gb 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 Gb 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 Gb?

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.

Gb Major

Octaves

Musical context

ChordGb majorTriad

ArpeggioGb majorBroken triad

ScaleGb major7 notes

KeyGb majorMajor key

ProgressionPop axisSequence

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

Theory

General info

Full name: Gb Major
Symbol: Gb
Root: Gb
Quality: Major

Chord notes

1Gbroot

3Bbmajor 3rd

5Dbperfect 5th

Functions & resolutions

Typical function in key: IVSubdominant (IV)C# major
Stability / tension: Stable — can serve as major tonic
Most common resolutions: BB Major DbDb Major EbmEb Minor
Main resolution: Gbsource
DbDb Major
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: Gbsource
Deceptive resolution
EbmEb Minor
As the V degree, a major chord can defy expectations by moving to vi instead of I (deceptive cadence).
Gbsource
Modal resolution
EE Major
In modal context, a major chord can freely move to bVII, bIII, or bVI — characteristic of Mixolydian mode.
Gbsource
Jazz reharmonization
Gbmaj7Gb 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).
Gbsource
Functional resolution
DbDb Major
As the IV degree (subdominant), a major chord can resolve to V or directly to I (plagal cadence).

Substitutions

Parallel: F#mF# Minor
Relative: EbmEb Minor
Mediant: BbmBb Minor

Features

Character: Major, stable
Characteristic interval: Major third (M3)
Description: The major 3rd defines the major quality, while the perfect 5th makes the triad stable.
Application: I, IV, V in major keys
Pop, rock, folk
Cadential chords