B Minor 6th (Bm6) — Complete Guitar Chord Guide Overview B Minor 6th is a minor chord built on the root B. The notes are B, D, F#, G#, following the formula 1 - b3 - 5 - 6. This chord is essential for guitarists exploring Jazz, Bossa Nova music and appears in countless songs across multiple genres. The Minor 6th quality gives it a distinctive harmonic character that adds emotional depth and melancholy. Music Theory The B Minor 6th chord uses the interval formula 1 - b3 - 5 - 6, producing the Root (1), Minor Third (b3), Perfect Fifth (5), Major Sixth (6). The notes B, D, F#, G# define its unique sonic footprint. Constructing this chord begins with the B major scale (B C# D# E F# G# A#). Taking the 1st, flatted 3rd, and 5th gives the minor triad — the flat 3rd creates the darker quality. Playing Tips For intermediate level players, Bm6 requires comfort with barre chords or extended shapes. Practice different voicings up the neck and work on incorporating the chord into progressions. Musical Applications B Minor 6th is most commonly found in Jazz, Bossa Nova, Gypsy Jazz music. Typical uses include creating emotional depth in verses, serving as the tonic in minor-key songs, and adding contrast in major-key progressions. Common chord progressions include Bm6 - A7 - Dmaj7 and C#m7b5 - F#7 - Bm6. Practice Recommendations Start with 5-minute sessions focusing on clean articulation of each note. Gradually increase to 10-minute transition drills with a metronome, then 20-minute arpeggio and rhythm variation practice. At 30 minutes, apply the chord to full progressions at increasing tempos. Record your practice to identify areas for improvement.