C# Major 6th Guitar Chord — Open G
Guitar chord voicings in Open G tuning (D-G-D-G-B-D)
C# Major 6th Voicings in Open G
C# Major 6th filtered by fret:
C# Major 6th in Open G Tuning — Guide
The C# Major 6th chord is made up of the following notes: C#, E#, G#, A#.
Intervals: 1P, 3M, 5P, 6M.
The C# Major 6th chord in Open G tuning (D-G-D-G-B-D) requires different fingerings than standard tuning.
The C# major sixth functions identically to a standard sixth chord, with a major triad plus the sixth — C#, E#, G#, A#, intervals 1P, 3M, 5P, 6M. It offers that classic warmth associated with early jazz and country western ballads. The sixth adds just enough color to lift the chord beyond a plain major triad while maintaining a feeling of happy resolution.
How to Play C# Major 6th
On guitar, C# maj6 typically requires a barre or partial barre voicing. Experiment with different positions to find the voicing that best suits your playing context — higher positions sound brighter and tighter, while lower positions offer more bass and resonance. CAGED system shapes help navigate these options efficiently.
C# Major 6th in Progressions
C# maj6 appears in various harmonic contexts depending on the key. Analyze the surrounding chords to determine its function — it may serve as a primary chord, a substitution, or a chromatic color chord that enriches the harmonic palette of a progression.
Common Substitutions
C#6, C#maj7, or A#m7 are interchangeable in many harmonic contexts.
Difficulty: On guitar, this chord typically requires a barre — intermediate difficulty, but essential for playing in sharp keys.