Construction
B Major 6 = Root + Major 3rd + Perfect 5th + Major 6th = B, D♯, F♯, G♯
| Note | Interval | Degree |
|---|---|---|
| B | Root | 1 |
| D♯ | Major 3rd | 3 |
| F♯ | Perfect 5th | 5 |
| G♯ | Major 6th | 6 |
How to Play the B Major 6
Right Hand (RH)
Place your right hand over the keys with the thumb on the root. Use the fingering: 1 – 2 – 3 – 5
Left Hand (LH)
For the left hand, start with your pinky on the root. Use the fingering: 5 – 3 – 2 – 1
B Major 6 Inversions
- Root positionB – D♯ – F♯ – G♯
- 1st inversion (B6/D♯)D♯ – F♯ – G♯ – B
- 2nd inversion (B6/F♯)F♯ – G♯ – B – D♯
- 3rd inversion (B6/G♯)G♯ – B – D♯ – F♯
Same Notes, Other Names
The notes B – D♯ – F♯ – G♯ aren’t exclusive to this chord. Depending on which note is the bass and how the chord functions, the same pitches also spell:
B Major 6 : Frequently Asked Questions
What is the B Major 6 chord on piano?
The B Major 6 chord contains the notes B – D♯ – F♯ – G♯. On piano, play these notes together to sound the chord.
What notes are in the B Major 6 chord?
B6 contains: B, D#, F#, G#. Major triad with major sixth.
How does B6 differ from Bmaj7?
B6 has G# (sixth). Bmaj7 has A# (seventh).
How does B6 differ from G#m7?
Same notes, different root.
How is B6 used?
Vintage jazz, pop-rock.
What songs use Major 6th?
Swing, jazz.
Can I substitute B6 for B Major?
Yes.