Major sixth interval
The major sixth interval consists of two notes with nine semitones 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). The inversion of major sixth is the minor third (m3). Related is the minor sixth, which is abbreviated m6.
A major sixth C to A on the keyboard.
Listen to the 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. Note 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 recognize an interval by ear, a good idea is to think of a familiar song whose opening notes matching it. An example (ascending M6) is the lullaby "Hush, Little Baby".
Ascending major sixth intervals
A list of 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, which are identical with descending major sixth intervals.
Descending major sixth intervals
A list of 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
Read more about intervals and use the interactive Piano Interval Finder tool.