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Chord chart for Cadd9 Guitar Chord (C major add 9): Notes, Shapes & How to Play | Guitar Wiz

C major add 9 guitar shapes

Popular fretboard positions with fingering suggestions

Showing 8 of 164 playable shapes

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

C major add 9 guitar chord

Cadd9 is the C major add 9 guitar chord. It uses the notes C, E, G, and D and the interval formula 1-3-5-9.

The C major add 9 major add 9 chord extends the major triad with an added ninth D, creating a bright, expansive harmony. Unlike the major 9 chord, it lacks the major seventh, offering a fresher, more open sound often used in pop, rock, and jazz for uplifting atmospheres.

Also written as Cmaj(add9) and CMadd9.

Root note: C
Quality: major add 9
Chord tones: 4
Playable shapes: 164

Chord tones

CEGD

Common guitar voicings

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

Shape 1

x30010

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

Shape 2

x30030

View shape
  1. 1 Place the 1st finger on the 3rd fret of the 5th string.
  2. 2 Place the 2nd finger on the 3rd fret of the 2nd 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.

D Major Ninth 9

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

Quick answers

What notes are in Cadd9?

Cadd9 uses the notes C, E, G, and D. Its interval formula is 1-3-5-9.

What is another name for Cadd9?

Cadd9 is also written as Cmaj(add9) and CMadd9.

How do you play Cadd9 on guitar?

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

Related Articles

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