Popular fretboard positions with fingering suggestions
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Cmaj11/E is the C major 11 / E (1st inversion) guitar chord with E in the bass. It uses the notes C, E, G, B, D, and F and the interval formula 1-3-5-7-9-11.
The C major 11 major 11 chord layers the major triad with a major seventh and eleventh F, creating a lush, expansive harmony. Its dreamy, sophisticated sound enhances major progressions with a modern, atmospheric feel, often used in jazz and ambient genres. With E in the bass, this voicing functions as the 1st inversion of C major 11.
Also written as Cmaj11 and CM11/E.
These are quick-start shapes for players who want the answer first and the deeper theory second.
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Each note below shows how the chord is built from its root. This is the theory layer underneath the fretboard shapes.
The root anchors the chord and defines its tonal center.
This note defines the chord's major quality and brings brightness to the sound.
The fifth reinforces stability and gives the chord its strong harmonic frame.
The major seventh adds a smooth, lush tension close to the root.
The ninth opens the chord up and adds a modern, spacious color.
The eleventh gives the chord a wider, suspended feel.
Every shape is shown with its diagram and exact fingering instructions.
Cmaj11/E uses the notes C, E, G, B, D, and F. Its interval formula is 1-3-5-7-9-11.
Cmaj11/E is also written as Cmaj11 and CM11/E.
Place the 1st finger on the 1st fret of the 2nd string. Place the 2nd finger on the 1st fret of the 1st string. Place the 3rd finger on the 2nd fret of the 5th string. Let the sixth, fourth, and third strings ring open. Strum from the 6th string down.
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