Cm11 chord on cavaquinho
Cm11 is the minor eleventh chord: C, Eb, G, Bb, D and F (1–b3–5–b7–9–11). On cavaquinho, the diagram shape is 3 3 1 1, with F 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 Cm11 voicing 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 and formula of Cm11
Notes in Cm11: 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.
See also
Part of the Extended family.