Major Ninth chord - guitar
The major ninth chord (maj9 or Δ9) combines a maj7 chord with a major ninth. It creates a rich and consonant sound, highly valued in jazz and bossa nova.
Intervals
| Degree | I | III | V | VII | IX |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Interval | Root | Major third | Perfect fifth | Major seventh | Major ninth |
| Semitones | 0 | 4 | 7 | 11 | 14 |
Formula 1 - 3 - 5 - 7 - 9
Theory
The maj9 chord adds a major ninth to the maj7 chord. C maj9 = C-E-G-B-D, D maj9 = D-F♯-A-C♯-E. It's entirely consonant and can serve as a tonic chord. The fifth is often omitted to create a more fluid voicing and avoid excessive density.
Examples
Example: Do Major Ninth
Open position
Bass fret 8
Styles
Construction
Formula 1 - 3 - 5 - 7 - 9: maj7 + ninth. Sophisticated jazz, R&B, neo-soul.
Learning
Jazz ballads. R&B progressions. Sophisticated extended voicings.
How to play
Resting Imaj9. Jazz ballads. R&B, neo-soul. Extended voicings.