Cm(maj7) chord on cavaquinho
Cm(maj7) is the minor major seventh chord: C, Eb, G and B (1–b3–5–7). On cavaquinho, the diagram shape is 1 4 1 1, with Eb in the bass.
On the cavaquinho, four steel strings tuned D–G–B–D pack the chord into a small, bright space — every finger counts. In this Cm(maj7) voicing the bass is Eb and the shape runs from fret 1 to 4. Its four steel strings give a bright, sharp attack that cuts through the mix and drives the beat.
Notes and formula of Cm(maj7)
Notes in Cm(maj7): C – Eb – G – BFormula: 1 – b3 – 5 – 7In the formula, the numbers count steps of the major scale starting from the note that names the chord; "b" lowers a half step, "#" raises one — and a slash names the bass note.
Where to use it
This is the classic suspense chord from spy movies — few notes, lots of atmosphere. It also opens the famous inner-voice trick that walks down one half step at a time: AmAmAmAm → AmMaj7 → Am7Am7Am7Am7 → Am6.
See also
Part of the Sevenths family.