Major sixth interval
The major sixth interval consists of two notes with nine semi-steps distance. For example, C to A note will result in this musical interval.
The major sixth interval is abbreviated M6 (an alternate spelling is diminished seventh). Related is the minor sixth, which is abbreviated m6
A major sixth C to A on the keyboard.
Listen to major sixth interval (C-A):
This interval is present in the 6th chord. For example, C6 consisting of the notes C, E, G, A. It is actually present in the minor 6th chord as well: Cm6 consists of the notes C, Eb, G, A. Notice that the 13th interval represent the same note, but on a higher octave. For example, C13 consisting of the notes C, E, G, Bb, D, F, A.
To being able to distinguish an interval by ear, a good idea is to think about a familiar song which beginning notes matching it. An example (ascending) is the lullaby "Hush, Little Baby".
Ascending major sixth intervals
A list with ascending major sixth intervals:
- C – A
- C#/Db – A#/Bb
- D – B
- D#/Eb – C
- E – C#/Db
- F – D
- F#/Gb – D#/Eb
- G – E
- G#/Ab – F
- A – F#/Gb
- A#/Bb – G
- B – G#/Ab
Inversions of these intervals will result in minor thirds.
Descending major sixth intervals
A list with descending major sixth intervals:
- C#/Db – E
- D – F
- D#/Eb – F#/Gb
- E – G
- F – G#/Ab
- F#/Gb – A
- G – A#/Bb
- G#/Ab – B
- A – C
- A#/Bb – C#/Db
- B – D
- C – D#/Eb