6/4 Chords (Second Inversion Triads)

Definition

6/4 chords, also known as second inversion triads, are chords where the fifth of the triad is in the bass. They often serve as passing or pedal tones and create a sense of motion and instability.

Related terms

Triad: A triad is a three-note chord consisting of a root, third, and fifth.

Inversion: Inversions occur when a note other than the root becomes the lowest note in a chord.

Passing Tone: A passing tone is a non-chord tone that connects two chord tones by stepwise motion.