How to play D Minor 6th on guitar
These shapes are for standard tuning (E A D G B E). The first is the easiest, and the others sit in different positions on the neck. Playing in another tuning? Pick it above the diagrams and the shapes are redrawn for it.
Shape 1: xx0201
- Press the 3rd string (G) at fret 2.
- Press the 1st string (e) at fret 1.
- Let the 4th, 2nd strings ring open.
- Don't play the 6th, 5th strings.
Shape 2: x53405
- Press the 5th string (A) at fret 5.
- Press the 4th string (D) at fret 3.
- Press the 3rd string (G) at fret 4.
- Press the 1st string (e) at fret 5.
- Let the 2nd string ring open.
- Don't play the 6th string.
Shape 3: (10)877(10)7 (from fret 7)
- Lay your index finger flat across the 1st to 4th strings at fret 7 (a barre).
- Press the 6th string (E) at fret 10.
- Press the 5th string (A) at fret 8.
- Press the 2nd string (B) at fret 10.
The numbers in the shape name list the fret for each string from the lowest (thickest) to the highest, with x meaning that string is not played and 0 meaning it rings open.
Notes in D Minor 6th
| Note | Role |
|---|---|
| D | 1 (root) |
| F | ♭3 |
| A | 5 |
| B | 6 |
The formula for D Minor 6th (minor 6) is 1 ♭3 5 6: take the root, then the scale degrees listed.
When to use Dm6
Minor 6th chords are bittersweet and cinematic. They are used for minor key endings and in gypsy jazz and bossa nova.
Other D chords
D, Dm, D7, Dmaj7, Dm7, Dsus2, Dsus4, D°, D+, Dadd9, D6, Dø7
Other minor 6th chords on guitar
Cm6, C♯m6, E♭m6, Em6, Fm6, F♯m6, Gm6, G♯m6, Am6, B♭m6, Bm6
Frequently asked questions
How do you play D Minor 6th on guitar?
The easiest Dm6 shape on guitar is xx0201 (Press the 3rd string (G) at fret 2. Press the 1st string (e) at fret 1. Let the 4th, 2nd strings ring open. Don't play the 6th, 5th strings.)
What notes are in D Minor 6th?
D Minor 6th (Dm6) contains the notes D F A B. The formula is 1 ♭3 5 6.
How many guitar shapes are there for Dm6?
There are many. This page shows 3 common ones at different positions, easiest first. Moving a barre shape up the neck gives the same chord type on other roots.
See D Minor 6th on ukulele, check its notes in the chord finder, or transpose a whole song with the chord transposer. Browse the full guitar chord library.