G#m11
G# Minor 11
Octaves
Musical context
How the chord relates to the scale, mode, key and progression.
Theory
General info
- Full name
- G# Minor 11
- Symbol
- G#m11
- Root
- G#
- Quality
- Minor 11
Chord notes
1G#root
b3Bminor 3rd
5D#perfect 5th
b7F#minor 7th
2A#major 2nd
4C#perfect 4th
Functions & resolutions
- Typical function in key
- ii
- Stability / tension
- Stable — can serve as minor tonic
- Unstable degrees
- 4C#b7F#resolves down to the resolution tonic
- Main resolution
- Minor chord G#m 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 minor 7th and 11th
- Characteristic interval
- Minor third (m3), 11th
- Description
- The minor 3rd and minor 7th define a minor 7th chord, while the 9th and 11th add diatonic extensions.
- Application
- Jazz fusion
- Lo-fi and chill
- Atmospheric guitar
Voicing & structure
Root position
v1G#(G#4)Bass
v2B(B4) m3from G#
v3D#(D#5) M3from B
v4F#(F#5) m3from D#
v5A#(A#5) M3from F#
v6C#(C#6) m3from A#
Harmony
Compatible scales
All chord tones are contained in these scales — use them for improvisation.
This chord on guitar 🎸
See how G#m11 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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