Which notes are in the C#add9 chord?

C#add9 contains the notes C#, F, G# and D#. Relative to the root these are the degrees 1 – 3 – 5 – 9.

Are C#add9 and Dbadd9 the same chord?

Yes. C#add9 and Dbadd9 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# added 9th · Piano

C#add9 Chord on Piano

The C#add9 chord (C# added 9th) is built from the notes C#, F, G# and D#. The keyboard diagram below shows exactly which keys to press. The same chord is also written Dbadd9; both spellings sound identical.

Chord diagrams

C#add9

Notes in this chord

C♯
F
G♯
D♯

Degrees: 1 – 3 – 5 – 9

Also written: Dbadd9

How to play

To play C#add9 on piano, press C#, F, G# 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

Add9 chords keep the full major triad and add the ninth without a seventh. The extra note widens the chord without making it sound jazzy, which is why it is everywhere in modern acoustic pop. On C#add9 this structure sits on the root C#, so the degrees 1 – 3 – 5 – 9 map onto C#, F, G# and D#.

Frequently asked questions

Which notes are in the C#add9 chord?: C#add9 contains the notes C#, F, G# and D#. Relative to the root these are the degrees 1 – 3 – 5 – 9.
Are C#add9 and Dbadd9 the same chord?: Yes. C#add9 and Dbadd9 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#add9 on your phone

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