C major 6th chord on piano
C6 is a major 6th chord built on C. It uses the notes C - E - G - A and sounds sweet and nostalgic, heard often in swing and old pop.
- Notes
- C E G A
- Formula
- 1 - 3 - 5 - 6
- Right hand fingering
- 1 - 2 - 3 - 5
- Left hand fingering
- 5 - 3 - 2 - 1
- Chord symbol
- C6
How to play C6 step by step
- Find C. C is the white key just left of each group of two black keys.
- Add E, 4 half steps above C.
- Add G, 7 half steps above C.
- Add A, 9 half steps above C.
- Press all 4 keys together with fingers 1 - 2 - 3 - 5 of your right hand. Keep your wrist level and let the weight of your arm do the work.
C6 inversions
An inversion uses the same notes in a different order. Inversions let your hand move less between chords, which is how pianists make chord changes sound smooth.
Frequently asked questions
What notes are in the C major 6th chord?
The C major 6th chord (C6) contains 4 notes: C, E, G, A. Its formula is 1 - 3 - 5 - 6.
How do you play C6 on piano?
Put your right-hand thumb on C and play C, E, G, A together using fingers 1 - 2 - 3 - 5. With the left hand, use fingers 5 - 3 - 2 - 1.