Which notes are in the G#9 chord?

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

Are G#9 and Ab9 the same chord?

Yes. G#9 and Ab9 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.

G# dominant 9th · Piano

G#9 Chord on Piano

The G#9 chord (G# dominant 9th) is built from the notes G#, C, D#, F# and A#. The keyboard diagram below shows exactly which keys to press. The same chord is also written Ab9; both spellings sound identical.

Chord diagrams

G#9

Notes in this chord

G♯
C
D♯
F♯
A♯

Degrees: 1 – 3 – 5 – ♭7 – 9

Also written: Ab9

How to play

To play G#9 on piano, press G#, C, D#, F# and A# together. In root position the lowest note is G#, 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 G#9 this structure sits on the root G#, so the degrees 1 – 3 – 5 – ♭7 – 9 map onto G#, C, D#, F# and A#.

Frequently asked questions

Which notes are in the G#9 chord?: G#9 contains the notes G#, C, D#, F# and A#. Relative to the root these are the degrees 1 – 3 – 5 – ♭7 – 9.
Are G#9 and Ab9 the same chord?: Yes. G#9 and Ab9 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 G#9 on your phone

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