Cm chord (C minor)

Cm (C minor) chord is commonly played as a barre chord:

Cm barre chord diagram
Cm barre chord diagram

Other options exist, but they are not as popular due to awkward finger position, and the need to mute 1st and 6th strings.

About Cm chord

Let’s look at some music theory behind Cm chord:

  • Chord formula: 1 – b3 – 5
  • Chord notes: C – Eb – G
  • Alternative names: Cm, Cmin, C−
  • Common functions:
    • i-chord in C minor key
    • ii-chord in Bb major key
    • iii-chord in Ab major scale
    • vi-chord in Eb major key