Which notes are in the C#9 chord?

C#9 contains the notes C#, F, G#, B and D#. Relative to the root these are the degrees 1 – 3 – 5 – ♭7 – 9.

Are C#9 and Db9 the same chord?

Yes. C#9 and Db9 are enharmonically identical — the spelling differs but the frets and keys are the same. Which name is used depends on the key of the piece.

C# dominant 9th · Piano

C#9 Chord on Piano

The C#9 chord (C# dominant 9th) is built from the notes C#, F, G#, B and D#. The keyboard diagram below shows exactly which keys to press. The same chord is also written Db9; both spellings sound identical.

Chord diagrams

C#9

Notes in this chord

C♯
F
G♯
B
D♯

Degrees: 1 – 3 – 5 – ♭7 – 9

Also written: Db9

How to play

To play C#9 on piano, press C#, F, G#, B and D# together. In root position the lowest note is C#, and the finger numbers follow the keys left to right in the diagram.

Theory behind the chord

Dominant ninth chords extend the dominant seventh with a ninth on top. They keep the pull of a seventh chord but sound fuller and more coloured, which is why funk and soul rhythm parts lean on them. On C#9 this structure sits on the root C#, so the degrees 1 – 3 – 5 – ♭7 – 9 map onto C#, F, G#, B and D#.

Frequently asked questions

Which notes are in the C#9 chord?: C#9 contains the notes C#, F, G#, B and D#. Relative to the root these are the degrees 1 – 3 – 5 – ♭7 – 9.
Are C#9 and Db9 the same chord?: Yes. C#9 and Db9 are enharmonically identical — the spelling differs but the frets and keys are the same. Which name is used depends on the key of the piece.

Practise C#9 on your phone

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