G# minor added 9th · Piano
G#m(add9) Chord on Piano
The G#m(add9) chord (G# minor added 9th) is built from the notes G#, B, D# and A#. The keyboard diagram below shows exactly which keys to press. The same chord is also written Abm(add9); both spellings sound identical.
Chord diagrams
Notes in this chord
- G♯
- B
- D♯
- A♯
Degrees: 1 – ♭3 – 5 – 9
Also written: Abm(add9)
How to play
To play G#m(add9) on piano, press G#, B, D# 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
Minor add9 chords add the ninth to a plain minor triad without a seventh. The added tone brightens the minor colour just enough to keep it open and cinematic rather than sad. On G#m(add9) this structure sits on the root G#, so the degrees 1 – ♭3 – 5 – 9 map onto G#, B, D# and A#.
Frequently asked questions
- Which notes are in the G#m(add9) chord?
- G#m(add9) contains the notes G#, B, D# and A#. Relative to the root these are the degrees 1 – ♭3 – 5 – 9.
- Are G#m(add9) and Abm(add9) the same chord?
- Yes. G#m(add9) and Abm(add9) 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#m(add9) on your phone
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