A Minor 6th
Introduction
Notes
A Minor 6th Inversions
| Position | Notes |
|---|---|
| Root Position | A4 – C5 – E5 – F#5 |
| 1st Inversion | C5 – E5 – F#5 – A5 |
| 2nd Inversion | E5 – F#5 – A5 – C6 |
| 3rd Inversion | A4 – C5 – E5 – F#4 |
Key Signature
The key of A Minor 6th has No sharps or flats.
Theory: Intervals
The A Minor 6th is built by stacking intervals from the root note. The formula R-m3-P5-M6 describes the scale degrees used. The intervals P1-m3-P5-M6 show the distance between each note in the chord.
A Minor 6th — Frequently Asked Questions
What notes are in the A Minor 6th chord?
Am6 contains: A, C, E, F#. Minor triad with major sixth. One of the most common m6 chords.
How does Am6 differ from Am7?
Am6 has F# (major sixth). Am7 has G (minor seventh).
How is Am6 used?
Am6 is the final chord in the famous descending line: Am → AmMaj7 → Am7 → Am6 (Stairway to Heaven). Enharmonic of F#m7b5. Jazz Dorian tonic.
Is Am6 the same as F#m7b5?
Same four notes (A, C, E, F# = F#, A, C, E). Context determines the name.
What songs use Minor 6th?
Stairway to Heaven (Led Zeppelin) — the Am → AmMaj7 → Am7 → Am6 descent is one of rock's most famous chord movements. My Funny Valentine.
How does Am6 differ from A6?
Am6 has minor third (C). A6 would have major third (C#).
Practice Tips
- Am6 is the Stairway to Heaven chord — the final step in Am → AmMaj7 → Am7 → Am6.
- Am6 and F#m7b5 are the same notes.
- The F# (major 6th) over A minor creates the Dorian sound.
- Nearly all white keys plus F# — easy to play.
- Am6 as jazz Dorian tonic is warmer than Am7.
- One of the most commonly heard m6 chords.