Chord & FretCm11 on cavaquinho
On the cavaquinho, four steel strings tuned D–G–B–D pack the chord into a small, bright space — every finger counts. In this position the bass is F and the shape runs from fret 1 to 3. Because this instrument has fewer strings than Cm11 has notes, one note — usually the fifth — is normally dropped without losing the chord's identity. Its four steel strings give a bright, sharp attack that cuts through the mix and drives the beat.
Notes on C: C – Eb – G – Bb – D – FFormula: 1 – b3 – 5 – b7 – 9 – 11In 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: Perfect for modal vamps — which simply means two chords circling each other, in no hurry to resolve, creating a suspended mood. As a resting chord in a minor key it sounds open and airy, almost like a landscape.
This is just one shape of Cm11 on cavaquinho. In Chord & Fret, you hear every shape strummed string by string, in the instrument's own voice; compare positions with their difficulty marked; and change the tuning — the shape rewrites itself. Start free. Unlock everything with Pro. 100% offline.
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