Construction
E Minor 6th = Root + Minor 3rd + Perfect 5th + Major 6th = E, G, B, C♯
| Note | Interval | Degree |
|---|---|---|
| E | Root | 1 |
| G | Minor 3rd | ♭3 |
| B | Perfect 5th | 5 |
| C♯ | Major 6th | 6 |
How to Play the E Minor 6th
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
E Minor 6th Inversions
- Root positionE – G – B – C♯
- 1st inversion (Em6/G)G – B – C♯ – E
- 2nd inversion (Em6/B)B – C♯ – E – G
- 3rd inversion (Em6/C♯)C♯ – E – G – B
Same Notes, Other Names
The notes E – G – B – C♯ aren’t exclusive to this chord. Depending on which note is the bass and how the chord functions, the same pitches also spell:
E Minor 6th : Frequently Asked Questions
What is the E Minor 6th chord on piano?
The E Minor 6th chord contains the notes E – G – B – C♯. On piano, play these notes together to sound the chord.
What notes are in the E Minor 6th chord?
Em6 contains: E, G, B, C#. Minor triad with major sixth.
How does Em6 differ from Em7?
Em6 has C# (major sixth). Em7 has D (minor seventh).
How is Em6 used?
Descending line. Jazz tonic. Enharmonic of C#m7b5.
Is Em6 the same as C#m7b5?
Same notes, different root.
What songs use Minor 6th?
My Funny Valentine, Stairway to Heaven.
How does Em6 differ from E6?
Em6 has minor third (G).