Which notes are in the C#maj7 chord?

C#maj7 contains the notes C#, F, G# and C. Relative to the root these are the degrees 1 – 3 – 5 – 7.

Are C#maj7 and Dbmaj7 the same chord?

Yes. C#maj7 and Dbmaj7 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# major 7th · Piano

C#maj7 Chord on Piano

The C#maj7 chord (C# major 7th) is built from the notes C#, F, G# and C. The keyboard diagram below shows exactly which keys to press. The same chord is also written Dbmaj7; both spellings sound identical.

Chord diagrams

C#maj7

Notes in this chord

C♯
F
G♯
C

Degrees: 1 – 3 – 5 – 7

Also written: Dbmaj7

How to play

To play C#maj7 on piano, press C#, F, G# and C 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

Major seventh chords keep the bright major triad but add the leading tone a semitone below the root. The result is the soft, floating sound heard throughout bossa nova, soul and neo-soul. On C#maj7 this structure sits on the root C#, so the degrees 1 – 3 – 5 – 7 map onto C#, F, G# and C.

Frequently asked questions

Which notes are in the C#maj7 chord?: C#maj7 contains the notes C#, F, G# and C. Relative to the root these are the degrees 1 – 3 – 5 – 7.
Are C#maj7 and Dbmaj7 the same chord?: Yes. C#maj7 and Dbmaj7 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#maj7 on your phone

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