G#mMaj11

G# Minor-maj 11

Octaves

Musical context

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

Theory

General info

Full name
G# Minor-maj 11
Symbol
G#mMaj11
Root
G#
Quality
Minor-maj 11

Chord notes

1G#root
b3Bminor 3rd
5D#perfect 5th
7Gmajor 7th
2A#major 2nd
4C#perfect 4th

Functions & resolutions

Stability / tension
Stable — can serve as minor tonic
Most common resolutions
Unstable degrees
7G
1G#
resolves up to the root
Main resolution
G#mMaj11source
D#D# Major
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
G#mMaj11source
Deceptive resolution
EE Major
A minor chord can unexpectedly move to the major chord on the bVI degree — a deceptive-resolution effect.
G#mMaj11source
Modal resolution
F#F# Major
In Dorian and Aeolian modes, the minor chord is the tonic. Typical modal motion: i → bVII or i → iv.
G#mMaj11source
Jazz reharmonization
C#7C# Dominant 7
In jazz, a minor chord often serves as ii in a ii-V-I progression. Its "resolution" is the dominant a 4th up.
G#mMaj11source
Functional resolution
C#C# Major
As the vi degree in major, a minor chord can move to IV or ii, creating subdominant motion.

Features

Character
Minor, with major 7th, 9th and 11th
Characteristic interval
Minor third (m3), Major 7th (M7), 11th
Description
A minor triad is extended by major 7th, 9th and 11th; adjacent degrees create several controlled dissonances.
Application
  • Film and soundtracks
  • Experimental jazz
  • Atmospheric compositions

Voicing & structure

Root position

v1G#(G#4)Bass
root
v2B(B4)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#mMaj11 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

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Frequently Asked Questions