Article
9th Chords on Guitar: Rich Voicings for Every Genre
Learn 9th chords on guitar - major 9th, minor 9th, dominant 9th, and add9. Shapes, theory, and how to use these lush chords in your playing.
G major add 9 guitar shapes
Popular fretboard positions with fingering suggestions
Showing 8 of 197 playable shapes
About the chord
G major add 9 guitar chord
Gadd9 is the G major add 9 guitar chord. It uses the notes G, B, D, and A and the interval formula 1-3-5-9.
The G major add 9 major add 9 chord extends the major triad with an added ninth A, 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 Gmaj(add9) and GMadd9.
Root note: G
Quality: major add 9
Chord tones: 4
Playable shapes: 197
Chord tones
GBDA
Common guitar voicings
These are quick-start shapes for players who want the answer first and the deeper theory second.
Shape 1
300003
- 1 Place the 1st finger on the 3rd fret of the 6th string.
- 2 Place the 2nd finger on the 3rd fret of the 1st string.
- 3 Strum from the 6th string down.
Shape 2
300203
- 1 Place the 1st finger on the 2nd fret of the 3rd string.
- 2 Place the 2nd finger on the 3rd fret of the 6th string.
- 3 Place the 3rd finger on the 3rd fret of the 1st string.
- 4 Strum from the 6th 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.
G Unison (Root) 1
The root anchors the chord and defines its tonal center.
B Major Third 3
This note defines the chord's major quality and brings brightness to the sound.
D Perfect Fifth 5
The fifth reinforces stability and gives the chord its strong harmonic frame.
A Major Ninth 9
The ninth opens the chord up and adds a modern, spacious color.
Quick answers
What notes are in Gadd9?
Gadd9 uses the notes G, B, D, and A. Its interval formula is 1-3-5-9.
What is another name for Gadd9?
Gadd9 is also written as Gmaj(add9) and GMadd9.
How do you play Gadd9 on guitar?
Place the 1st finger on the 3rd fret of the 6th string. Place the 2nd finger on the 3rd fret of the 1st string. Strum from the 6th string down.
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