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Chord chart for CM9 Guitar Chord (C major 9): Notes, Shapes & How to Play | Guitar Wiz

C major 9 guitar shapes

Popular fretboard positions with fingering suggestions

Showing 8 of 107 playable shapes

C major 9 guitar chord diagram showing fretboard positions
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About the chord

C major 9 guitar chord

CM9 is the C major 9 guitar chord. It uses the notes C, E, G, B, and D and the interval formula 1-3-5-7-9.

The C major 9 major 9 chord adds a major ninth D to the major 7th, creating an expansive, ethereal sound. Its rich harmonic structure enhances the major tonality with a modern, sophisticated vibe, ideal for jazz, ambient, and cinematic music.

Also written as Cmaj9.

Root note: C
Quality: major 9
Chord tones: 5
Playable shapes: 107

Chord tones

CEGBD

Common guitar voicings

These are quick-start shapes for players who want the answer first and the deeper theory second.

Shape 1

x30000

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  1. 1 Place the 1st finger on the 3rd fret of the 5th string.
  2. 2 Strum from the 5th string down.

Shape 2

x30400

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  1. 1 Place the 1st finger on the 3rd fret of the 5th string.
  2. 2 Place the 2nd finger on the 4th fret of the 3rd string.
  3. 3 Strum from the 5th string down.

Notes & Intervals

Each note below shows how the chord is built from its root. This is the theory layer underneath the fretboard shapes.

C Unison (Root) 1

The root anchors the chord and defines its tonal center.

E Major Third 3

This note defines the chord's major quality and brings brightness to the sound.

G Perfect Fifth 5

The fifth reinforces stability and gives the chord its strong harmonic frame.

B Major Seventh 7

The major seventh adds a smooth, lush tension close to the root.

D Major Ninth 9

The ninth opens the chord up and adds a modern, spacious color.

Quick answers

What notes are in CM9?

CM9 uses the notes C, E, G, B, and D. Its interval formula is 1-3-5-7-9.

What is another name for CM9?

CM9 is also written as Cmaj9.

How do you play CM9 on guitar?

Place the 1st finger on the 3rd fret of the 5th string. Strum from the 5th string down.

Related Articles

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