Construction
A Minor 13th = Root + Minor 3rd + Perfect 5th + Minor 7th + Major 2nd + Perfect 4th + Major 6th = A, C, E, G, B, D, F♯
| Note | Interval | Degree |
|---|---|---|
| A | Root | 1 |
| C | Minor 3rd | ♭3 |
| E | Perfect 5th | 5 |
| G | Minor 7th | ♭7 |
| B | Major 2nd | 9 |
| D | Perfect 4th | 11 |
| F♯ | Major 6th | 13 |
Key Signature
A chord has no key signature of its own, but the A Minor 13th is the tonic (i) chord of A Minor, which shares the signature of its relative major, C Major: no sharps or flats.
Chords in the Key of A Minor
These are the triads built on each degree of A Minor:
Scales That Include the A Minor 13th
- G Major (ii)
- E Minor (iv)
- A Dorian (i)
- B Phrygian (vii)
- C Lydian (vi)
- D Mixolydian (v)
- E Aeolian (iv)
- F# Locrian (iii)
Same Notes, Other Names
The notes A – C – E – G – B – D – F♯ aren’t exclusive to this chord. Depending on which note is the bass and how the chord functions, the same pitches also spell the following:
A Minor 13th : Frequently Asked Questions
What is the A Minor 13th chord on piano?
The A Minor 13th chord contains the notes A – C – E – G – B – D – F♯. On piano, play these notes together to sound the chord.
What notes are in the A Minor 13th chord?
Practical voicing: A–C–G–B–F# (root, third, seventh, ninth, thirteenth).
How does Am13 differ from A13?
Am13 has minor third (C). A13 has major third (C#).
How is Am13 used in music?
Richest ii in G Major, vi in C Major. One of the most common m13 chords. Jazz, pop, lo-fi, neo-soul.
How does Am13 differ from Am11?
Adds the thirteenth (F#) for a bright top note.
What songs use Minor 13th chords?
Modal jazz, neo-soul, lo-fi. Am13 is ubiquitous.
Do I need to play all seven notes?
No: A–C–G–B–F#.