root position: C6
C – E – G – A
C6 Piano Chord
The C major 6 chord (C6) is made of the notes C, E, G and A. Its formula is 1 – 3 – 5 – 6.
Notes in C6
| Note | Formula | Interval from root |
|---|---|---|
| C | 1 | root |
| E | 3 | major 3rd |
| G | 5 | perfect 5th |
| A | 6 | major 6th |
How to play C6 on piano
- Right hand: fingers 1-2-3-5
- Left hand: fingers 5-3-2-1
Fingers are numbered from the thumb (1) to the little finger (5).
C6 inversions
1st inversion: C6/E
E – G – A – C
2nd inversion: C6/G
G – A – C – E
3rd inversion: C6/A
A – C – E – G
Other names for C6
C6 is also written as Cmaj6, CM6.
Keys that contain C6
C6 is not one of the basic chords of any major or minor key. It is usually used as a passing or colour chord.