Popular fretboard positions with fingering suggestions
Showing 8 of 63 playable shapes
C9 is the C9 guitar chord. It uses the notes C, E, G, B♭, and D and the interval formula 1-3-5-♭7-9.
The C9 dominant 9 chord enriches the dominant 7th by adding a major ninth D, enhancing its tension with a colorful, jazzy flair. This extended harmony adds sophistication, frequently used in jazz, blues, and funk for dynamic progressions.
Also written as Cdom9.
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 minor seventh adds bluesy or jazzy tension that wants to move onward.
The ninth opens the chord up and adds a modern, spacious color.
Every shape is shown with its diagram and exact fingering instructions.
C9 uses the notes C, E, G, B♭, and D. Its interval formula is 1-3-5-♭7-9.
C9 is also written as Cdom9.
Place the 1st finger on the 1st fret of the 2nd string. Place the 3rd finger on the 3rd fret of the 5th string. Place the 4th finger on the 3rd fret of the 3rd string. Let the fourth and first strings ring open. Strum from the 5th string down.
Articles that reference this chord and explain how to use it in your playing.
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