Chord & FretCmaj13 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 Cmaj13 voicing the bass is B and the shape runs from fret 9 to 10. Because this instrument has fewer strings than Cmaj13 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 in Cmaj13: C – E – G – B – D – AFormula: 1 – 3 – 5 – 7 – 9 – 13In 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: The last chord of ballads, jazz and MPB — an ending that rests without sounding plain.
This is just one shape of Cmaj13 on cavaquinho. In Chord & Fret, you hear every shape strummed string by string, in the instrument's own voice; open every variation on the neck, grouped by bass note; and set a capo — the diagrams redraw above it. Start free. Unlock everything with Pro. Plays offline.
See the whole neck in Chord & Fret →Part of the Extended family.