C Major Sixth Chord

Chord Tones: C Major Sixth Chord

Symbol: 6, maj6 — Formula: 1-3-5-6

Chord Notation

Roman numeral (e.g. I, IV, V) and Nashville Number notation are key-dependent. See Keys pages for chord function within specific keys.

Inversions

Harmonic Function

The C major sixth chord commonly functions as the tonic (I) in C major/minor. Its harmonic role varies by key — in major keys it provides stable harmonic grounding.

The major sixth chord adds a major sixth to the major triad. It has a warm, pleasant quality with a hint of jazz sophistication, often used as a substitute for the plain major chord. The C Major Sixth Chord specifically contains 4 notes: C, E, G, A (formula: 1-3-5-6). On piano, C-rooted chords sit entirely on white keys in their basic triad form, making them the first chords most students learn. Pop, folk, and singer-songwriter music heavily use C-rooted chords because open-position guitar voicings and piano shapes are immediately accessible.

Common Progressions

The C Major Sixth Chord frequently appears in these progression patterns (shown in Roman numeral notation relative to key):

• I6-IV-V
• I6-ii-V

Songs Featuring the Major Sixth Chord

Well-known songs where the C Major Sixth Chord — or this chord type — plays a prominent role:

• My Way – Frank Sinatra
• The Girl from Ipanema – Jobim
• Take Five – Dave Brubeck

Tuning Frequencies Across Temperaments

Frequencies shown at A=440 Hz. View full temperament data for any note.

Scales Containing the C Major Sixth Chord

These scales include the C Major Sixth Chord as a diatonic or characteristic chord: