How Do You Play An A#6 Guitar Chord?

A 6 Guitar Chord, also known as A#maj6, adds a jazzy, sophisticated color to your guitar playing, and at guitarplayers.net, we’re dedicated to helping you master it. This comprehensive guide will provide charts, voicings, and tips to incorporate this chord into your musical repertoire, along with exploring related chord variations, inversions, and songs. Unlock a new dimension of musical expression with major sixth chords and expand your harmonic vocabulary.

1. What Is an A#6 Guitar Chord?

An A#6 guitar chord is a four-note chord that adds the major sixth interval to the A# major triad. This creates a richer, more complex sound than a standard major chord. The notes in an A#6 chord are:

Root: A# (A Sharp)
Major Third: D
Perfect Fifth: F
Major Sixth: F## (F Double Sharp, enharmonically equivalent to G)

This unique combination gives the A#6 chord its distinctive, sweet, and slightly melancholic quality.

1.1 What are the Alternate Names for A#6?

A#6 can be notated in various forms, all referencing the same chord:

A#maj6
A# Major Sixth
A#M6
A Sharp Sixth

1.2 Why Learn the A#6 Chord?

Learning the A#6 chord opens up a world of musical possibilities:

Adds Color: It provides a more sophisticated alternative to the standard A# major chord.
Jazz and Pop: It’s commonly used in jazz, pop, and even some blues progressions.
Improvisation: It offers interesting melodic possibilities for soloing.
Songwriting: It can add depth and emotion to your compositions.

2. A#6 Guitar Chord Charts and Voicings

Here are several ways to play the A#6 chord on the guitar, focusing on standard tuning. Each voicing offers a slightly different sound and may be easier to play depending on your skill level and the context of the song.

2.1 A#6 Chord: First Position

This voicing is accessible to beginners and provides a bright, clear sound.

String 6 (E): X (muted)
String 5 (A): X (muted)
String 4 (D): 3
String 3 (G): 4
String 2 (B): 5
String 1 (e): 3

Alt text: A sharp 6 guitar chord diagram in the first position showing finger placements on the 3rd, 4th, and 5th frets.

2.2 A#6 Chord: Second Position

This voicing is a bit more challenging but offers a fuller sound.

String 6 (E): X (muted)
String 5 (A): X (muted)
String 4 (D): 3
String 3 (G): 4
String 2 (B): 5
String 1 (e): 7

2.3 A#6 Chord: Third Position

This voicing uses a barre, which can be tricky for beginners, but provides a solid, movable shape.

String 6 (E): X (muted)
String 5 (A): 3
String 4 (D): 4
String 3 (G): 5
String 2 (B): 6
String 1 (e): 3

2.4 A#6 Chord: Fourth Position

Here’s another variation that provides a unique tone:

String 6 (E): X (muted)
String 5 (A): X (muted)
String 4 (D): 3
String 3 (G): 4
String 2 (B): 5
String 1 (e): 5

2.5 A#6 Chord: Fifth Position

This is a higher position voicing of the A#6 chord.

String 6 (E): X (muted)
String 5 (A): X (muted)
String 4 (D): 5
String 3 (G): 6
String 2 (B): 7
String 1 (e): 5

2.6 A#6 Chord: Sixth Position

This shape is useful for moving up the neck.

String 6 (E): X (muted)
String 5 (A): X (muted)
String 4 (D): 3
String 3 (G): 4
String 2 (B): 3
String 1 (e): 3

2.7 A#6 Chord: Seventh Position

Another variation of the A#6 chord with a different sound.

String 6 (E): X (muted)
String 5 (A): 15
String 4 (D): 16
String 3 (G): 17
String 2 (B): 18
String 1 (e): 15

2.8 A#6 Chord: Eighth Position

This is a higher register voicing of the A#6 chord.

String 6 (E): X (muted)
String 5 (A): X (muted)
String 4 (D): 15
String 3 (G): 16
String 2 (B): 17
String 1 (e): 19

2.9 A#6 Chord: Ninth Position

A unique fingering for the A#6 chord.

String 6 (E): X (muted)
String 5 (A): 15
String 4 (D): 16
String 3 (G): 17
String 2 (B): 18
String 1 (e): 17

2.10 A#6 Chord: Tenth Position

Experiment with this voicing for a different feel.

String 6 (E): X (muted)
String 5 (A): X (muted)
String 4 (D): 15
String 3 (G): 16
String 2 (B): 17
String 1 (e): 17

2.11 A#6 Chord: Eleventh Position

A higher octave voicing.

String 6 (E): X (muted)
String 5 (A): X (muted)
String 4 (D): 17
String 3 (G): 18
String 2 (B): 19
String 1 (e): 17

2.12 A#6 Chord: Twelfth Position

Another variation for playing the A#6 chord up the neck.

String 6 (E): X (muted)
String 5 (A): X (muted)
String 4 (D): 15
String 3 (G): 16
String 2 (B): 15
String 1 (e): 15

2.13 A#6 Chord: Thirteenth Position

An open position A#6 chord.

String 6 (E): X (muted)
String 5 (A): X (muted)
String 4 (D): 1
String 3 (G): 2
String 2 (B): 3
String 1 (e): 1

2.14 A#6 Chord: Fourteenth Position

This voicing offers a bright and airy sound.

String 6 (E): X (muted)
String 5 (A): 1
String 4 (D): 1
String 3 (G): 2
String 2 (B): 3
String 1 (e): 1

2.15 A#6 Chord: Fifteenth Position

Try this position for a full, resonant A#6 chord.

String 6 (E): X (muted)
String 5 (A): 1
String 4 (D): 1
String 3 (G): 1
String 2 (B): 1
String 1 (e): 1

2.16 A#6 Chord: Sixteenth Position

A unique voicing of the A#6 chord.

String 6 (E): X (muted)
String 5 (A): 1
String 4 (D): 1
String 3 (G): 2
String 2 (B): 3
String 1 (e): 1

2.17 A#6 Chord: Seventeenth Position

This position offers a clean and distinct A#6 sound.

String 6 (E): X (muted)
String 5 (A): 1
String 4 (D): 1
String 3 (G): 2
String 2 (B): 1
String 1 (e): 1

2.18 A#6 Chord: Eighteenth Position

This voicing is useful for creating chord melodies.

String 6 (E): X (muted)
String 5 (A): X (muted)
String 4 (D): 1
String 3 (G): 2
String 2 (B): 3
String 1 (e): X (muted)

2.19 A#6 Chord: Nineteenth Position

Experiment with this position for a different feel.

String 6 (E): X (muted)
String 5 (A): 15
String 4 (D): 16
String 3 (G): 17
String 2 (B): 18
String 1 (e): 1

2.20 A#6 Chord: Twentieth Position

This voicing provides a bright and airy sound.

String 6 (E): X (muted)
String 5 (A): 1
String 4 (D): 2
String 3 (G): 3
String 2 (B): 4
String 1 (e): 1

2.21 A#6 Chord: Twenty-First Position

Try this position for a full, resonant A#6 chord.

String 6 (E): X (muted)
String 5 (A): 1
String 4 (D): 2
String 3 (G): 3
String 2 (B): 4
String 1 (e): X (muted)

3. Tips for Playing the A#6 Guitar Chord

Finger Placement: Ensure your fingers are placed firmly behind the frets to get a clean sound.
Muting: Be mindful of muting unwanted strings, especially on voicings that require it.
Practice: Start with the easier voicings and gradually work your way up to the more challenging ones.
Experiment: Try different fingerings to find what feels most comfortable for you.

4. A#6 Chord in Different Tunings

While standard tuning is most common, you can also play the A#6 chord in other tunings. Here’s how the A#6 guitar chord can be played in other tunings:

5. Understanding Chord Inversions

Chord inversions involve changing the order of the notes in a chord. For A#6, the common inversions are:

5.1 Root Position

The standard A#6 chord with A# as the lowest note: A#-D-F-F##

5.2 First Inversion

D is the lowest note: D-F-F##-A#

5.3 Second Inversion

F is the lowest note: F-F##-A#-D

5.4 Third Inversion

F## is the lowest note: F##-A#-D-F

Understanding inversions helps you create smoother transitions between chords and add variety to your playing.

6. Common Chord Progressions with A#6

The A#6 chord works well in various progressions, adding a unique flavor to your music.

6.1 I-IV-V-I Progression

A#6-D#-E#-A#6 (a twist on the classic progression)

6.2 ii-V-I Progression

B#m7-D#-A#6 (common in jazz)

6.3 I-vi-IV-V Progression

A#6-F#m7-D#-E# (a popular progression in pop music)

Experiment with these progressions and others to discover how the A#6 chord can enhance your songwriting.

7. Playing A#6 in Different Genres

7.1 Jazz

In jazz, A#6 adds a sophisticated, mellow tone. It’s often used in standards and ballads to create a smooth, flowing sound.

7.2 Pop

In pop music, A#6 can add a touch of class to chord progressions, making them more interesting and emotionally resonant.

7.3 Blues

While less common in traditional blues, A#6 can be used to add a jazzy twist to blues progressions, creating a unique and modern sound.

7.4 Rock

The A#6 chord can be incorporated into rock music to provide harmonic interest, especially in ballads or softer rock songs.

8. Famous Songs That Use the A#6 Chord

While it can be challenging to pinpoint songs that explicitly use an A#6 chord due to key variations and interpretations, the sound and function of a major sixth chord are present in many songs. Here are a few examples where the effect of an A#6 (or its equivalent in a different key) can be heard:

8.1 “Yesterday” by The Beatles

This classic uses a G6 chord (equivalent function) to create a melancholic and reflective mood.

8.2 “Like a Rolling Stone” by Bob Dylan

The use of major sixth chords adds a layer of complexity and depth to the song’s emotional impact.

8.3 “God Only Knows” by The Beach Boys

Known for its sophisticated harmonies, this song uses major sixth chords to evoke a sense of yearning and beauty.

8.4 “What a Wonderful World” by Louis Armstrong

The major sixth chords contribute to the song’s optimistic and heartwarming feel.

9. Related Guitar Chords

9.1 A# Major

The basic A# major chord is a foundational chord.

9.2 A# Minor

The A# minor chord offers a darker, more melancholic sound.

9.3 A#7

Adding a dominant 7th to the A# chord creates a bluesier, more complex sound.

9.4 A#m7

The A# minor 7th chord combines the minor tonality with the added color of a 7th.

9.5 A#maj7

The A# major 7th chord provides a lush, jazzy sound.

10. Advanced Techniques for A#6 Guitar Chord

10.1 Arpeggios

Breaking down the A#6 chord into individual notes can create beautiful arpeggio patterns.

10.2 Chord Melodies

Create melodies using the notes within the A#6 chord, combining harmony and melody in one.

10.3 Improvisation

Use the A#6 chord as a starting point for improvising solos, exploring the unique melodic possibilities it offers.

11. How to Practice A#6 Guitar Chord Effectively

11.1 Start Slowly

Begin by practicing the A#6 chord at a slow tempo, focusing on clean finger placement and smooth transitions.

11.2 Use a Metronome

Practice with a metronome to develop your timing and rhythm.

11.3 Record Yourself

Recording yourself playing can help you identify areas for improvement.

11.4 Practice Regularly

Consistent practice, even for short periods, is more effective than infrequent, long sessions.

12. The Importance of Ear Training

Ear training can significantly enhance your ability to recognize and use the A#6 chord.

12.1 Interval Recognition

Learn to identify the major sixth interval, which is crucial to the sound of the A#6 chord.

12.2 Chord Recognition

Practice recognizing the A#6 chord in different musical contexts.

12.3 Transcription

Try transcribing songs that use major sixth chords to improve your ear and understanding.

13. Essential Gear for Playing Guitar

Having the right gear can make learning and playing the A#6 chord more enjoyable.

13.1 Guitar

Choose a guitar that suits your playing style and budget.

13.2 Strings

Use high-quality strings that are appropriate for your guitar and playing style.

13.3 Pick

Experiment with different picks to find one that feels comfortable and produces the sound you want.

13.4 Amplifier

If you play electric guitar, invest in a good amplifier that delivers a clean and clear tone.

13.5 Accessories

Other useful accessories include a tuner, capo, strap, and gig bag.

14. Guitar Maintenance and Care

Proper guitar maintenance ensures your instrument stays in good playing condition.

14.1 Cleaning

Regularly clean your guitar to remove dirt and grime.

14.2 String Changes

Change your strings regularly to maintain optimal tone and playability.

14.3 Setup

Have your guitar professionally set up to ensure proper intonation and action.

14.4 Storage

Store your guitar in a case or gig bag to protect it from damage.

15. Learning Resources for Guitar Players

There are many resources available to help you improve your guitar playing.

15.1 Online Lessons

Websites like guitarplayers.net offer a wealth of lessons and tutorials for all skill levels.

15.2 Books and Sheet Music

Explore guitar method books and sheet music to learn new songs and techniques.

15.3 Private Lessons

Consider taking private lessons from a qualified guitar teacher.

15.4 Guitar Communities

Join online forums or local guitar groups to connect with other players.

16. The Role of Music Theory

Understanding music theory can greatly enhance your ability to use the A#6 chord effectively.

16.1 Chord Construction

Learn how chords are constructed to understand the relationships between notes.

16.2 Key Signatures

Understand key signatures to know which chords work well together.

16.3 Harmony

Study harmony to learn how chords interact and create musical textures.

17. Exploring Different Guitar Styles

17.1 Fingerstyle

Fingerstyle guitar involves playing without a pick, using your fingers to pluck the strings.

17.2 Flatpicking

Flatpicking involves using a pick to play single-note melodies and chords.

17.3 Slide Guitar

Slide guitar involves using a slide to create smooth, gliding sounds.

18. The Benefits of Playing Guitar

Playing guitar offers numerous benefits, both physical and mental.

18.1 Stress Relief

Playing guitar can be a great way to relax and relieve stress.

18.2 Cognitive Benefits

Learning guitar can improve cognitive function and memory.

18.3 Creativity

Playing guitar can foster creativity and self-expression.

18.4 Social Connections

Playing guitar can lead to new social connections and opportunities.

19. Famous Guitar Players

19.1 Jimi Hendrix

Known for his innovative and groundbreaking guitar playing.

19.2 Eric Clapton

A legendary blues and rock guitarist.

19.3 Jimmy Page

The iconic guitarist of Led Zeppelin.

19.4 B.B. King

The “King of the Blues.”

19.5 Jeff Beck

A highly influential and versatile guitarist.

20. Latest Trends in Guitar Playing

20.1 Online Guitar Communities

Online platforms are fostering global guitar communities.

20.2 Innovative Guitar Gear

New technologies are constantly emerging, offering guitarists new tools and sounds.

20.3 Genre Blending

Guitarists are increasingly blending genres, creating unique and innovative musical styles.

21. Guitar Events in the USA

21.1 NAMM Show

One of the largest music industry trade shows in the world, held annually in Anaheim, California.

21.2 Summer NAMM

A smaller version of the NAMM Show, held annually in Nashville, Tennessee.

21.3 Guitar Festivals

Numerous guitar festivals take place throughout the USA, showcasing talented guitarists and offering workshops and clinics.

22. Guitar Brands in the USA

22.1 Fender

An iconic American guitar brand, known for its Stratocaster and Telecaster models. Address: 1140 Boylston Street, Boston, MA 02215, United States.

22.2 Gibson

Another legendary American guitar brand, known for its Les Paul and SG models. Phone: +1 (617) 747-2261.

22.3 Martin

A renowned acoustic guitar brand, known for its high-quality instruments. Website: guitarplayers.net.

22.4 Taylor

A leading acoustic guitar brand, known for its innovative designs and exceptional playability.

23. A#6 Guitar Chord FAQ

23.1 What notes make up an A#6 chord?

The A#6 chord consists of the notes A#, D, F, and F## (G).

23.2 Is A#6 the same as B flat 6?

Yes, A# and B flat are enharmonically equivalent, so the chords are the same.

23.3 What is the difference between A#6 and A# major?

A#6 includes an added major sixth interval (F##/G), which gives it a richer sound compared to the standard A# major triad.

23.4 How can I use the A#6 chord in a song?

Use it as a color tone in chord progressions, especially in jazz, pop, or blues, to add depth and emotion.

23.5 What are some common voicings for A#6 on guitar?

Various voicings exist, including open position and barre chord shapes, each offering a unique sound and feel.

23.6 Can I play A#6 in different tunings?

Yes, A#6 can be played in various alternate tunings, each providing a different sonic texture.

23.7 What are some related chords to A#6?

Related chords include A# major, A# minor, A#7, A#m7, and A#maj7.

23.8 How does music theory help with understanding A#6?

Understanding chord construction, key signatures, and harmony helps you use A#6 effectively.

23.9 What are some tips for practicing the A#6 chord?

Start slowly, use a metronome, record yourself, and practice regularly to improve your playing.

23.10 Where can I find more guitar learning resources?

Websites like guitarplayers.net, books, private lessons, and guitar communities offer valuable learning resources.

Conclusion

Mastering the A#6 guitar chord is a rewarding journey that expands your musical vocabulary and adds depth to your playing. By exploring different voicings, inversions, and progressions, you can unlock new creative possibilities and enhance your overall musicianship. Remember to practice regularly, seek out learning resources, and connect with other guitar players to continue growing as a musician. Visit guitarplayers.net today to discover a wealth of lessons, reviews, and community forums that will help you on your guitar playing journey, and connect with fellow guitar enthusiasts in the USA! Start exploring now and elevate your music to new heights.