What Is the vi (VI) Chord?
In music theory, the vi chord (lowercase in major keys) or VI chord (uppercase in minor keys) is a diatonic chord built on the sixth scale degree. It plays a crucial role in harmony, often serving as a tonic substitute or predominant chord in progressions.
The vi Chord in Major Keys
In a major key, the vi chord is a minor triad (or minor 7th if extended). For example:
- C Major Scale: A – C – E → A minor (vi)
- G Major Scale: E – G – B → E minor (vi)
The VI Chord in Minor Keys
In a natural minor key, the VI chord is a major triad (or major 7th if extended). For example:
- A Minor Scale: F – A – C → F major (VI)
- E Minor Scale: C – E – G → C major (VI)
Function of the vi (VI) Chord
1. Tonic Function (in Major Keys)
The vi chord shares two notes with the I chord, making it a tonic substitute. It provides a softer, more melancholic resolution compared to the major tonic.
Example Progression:
- I – vi – IV – V (C – Am – F – G) – Common in pop and classical music.
2. Predominant Function (in Minor Keys)
The VI chord in minor keys often acts as a predominant, leading to the dominant (V or v).
Example Progression:
- i – VI – III – VII (Am – F – C – G) – Common in rock and classical minor progressions.
3. Modulation & Borrowed Chords
- The vi chord can help modulate to its relative major (if starting in minor).
- In modal interchange, the VI chord from the parallel minor can be borrowed into major (e.g., C major → Ab major (borrowed from C minor)).
Common Chord Progressions Featuring vi (VI)
In Major Keys:
- I – V – vi – IV (C – G – Am – F) – Popular in modern pop music.
- vi – IV – I – V (Am – F – C – G) – “Axis of Awesome” progression.
- I – vi – ii – V (C – Am – Dm – G) – Jazz and classical turnaround.
In Minor Keys:
- i – VI – III – VII (Am – F – C – G) – Andalusian cadence.
- i – VI – iv – V (Am – F – Dm – E) – Common in classical and rock.
Why Is the vi (VI) Chord Important in AP Music Theory?
- Harmonic Analysis: Understanding its role in cadences and progressions.
- Voice Leading: Smooth transitions between chords (e.g., I → vi retains common tones).
- Songwriting & Composition: Adds emotional depth and variety.
Final Thoughts
The vi (VI) chord is a versatile harmonic tool, essential for AP Music Theory students and musicians. Whether used as a tonic substitute in major keys or a predominant in minor keys, mastering this chord enhances musical expression.
Want to master more chords? Check out our guides on the IV chord and V7 chord for a deeper dive into music theory.
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