G#maj11

G# Major 11

Octaves

Musical context

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

Theory

General info

Full name
G# Major 11
Symbol
G#maj11
Root
G#
Quality
Major 11

Chord notes

1G#root
3B#major 3rd
5D#perfect 5th
7Gmajor 7th
2A#major 2nd
4C#perfect 4th

Functions & resolutions

Typical function in key
ITonic (I)Ab major
Stability / tension
Stable — can serve as major tonic
Most common resolutions
Unstable degrees
7G
1G#
resolves up to the root
Main resolution
G#maj11source
D#D# 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
G#maj11source
Deceptive resolution
FmF Minor
As the V degree, a major chord can defy expectations by moving to vi instead of I (deceptive cadence).
G#maj11source
Modal resolution
F#F# Major
In modal context, a major chord can freely move to bVII, bIII, or bVI — characteristic of Mixolydian mode.
G#maj11source
Jazz reharmonization
G#maj7G# 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).
G#maj11source
Functional resolution
D#D# Major
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 11th
Characteristic interval
Major 7th (M7), 11th
Description
The major 7th and 11th extend the major triad; the 3rd and 11th form a semitone dissonance.
Application
  • Neo-soul, modern jazz
  • Pads and sustained textures
  • Pop ballads with chord extensions

Voicing & structure

Root position

v1G#(G#4)Bass
root
v2B#(B#5)M3from G#
v3D#(D#5)m3from B#
v4G(G5)M3from D#
v5A#(A#5)m3from G
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#maj11 looks on guitar.

Explore

Circle of fifths

Highlighted major keys contain this chord among their diatonic harmonies.

CAmGEmDBmAF#mEC#mBG#mF#D#mDbBbmAbFmEbCmBbGmFDmAbmajor
Relative key
Dominant
Subdominant
Key signature
4 flats (Bb, Eb, Ab, Db)

Practice

Keyboard Trainer

Reinforce it in practice — play and name notes on the interactive keyboard.

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Frequently Asked Questions