Add9 Chords

An Add9 chord is created by taking a chord you already know and adding one more note. For example, to construct a C major chord, start with the C major scale: C-D-E-F-G-A-B. Pick the first, third, and fifth notes: C, E, and G. Playing these three notes simultaneously gives us a C major chord. When we add one more note—the D note—it becomes a C major Add9 chord. Typically, the extra note is not the D note closest in pitch to the lowest C note. Instead, it will be one octave higher or more. This is why we call it a "nine" and not a "two." The distance between the C and the first D note is so close that it would create a clashing, dissonant sound. But when you move the D note one octave higher, it creates a much more appealing sound. So, for a C major chord with an added ninth, we take the second note of the scale one octave higher to form the Cadd9 chord. The scale then looks like C-D-E-F-G-A-B-C-D.

Here are some examples of Add9 chords:

Gadd9 (Scale: G-A-B-C-D-E-F#-G-A)

• Place your second finger on the 3rd fret of the 6th string (root G).
• Skip over the A string and the D string for now.
• Put your first finger on the 2nd fret of the G string (A).
• Play the D string open, and place your pinky on the 3rd fret of the high E string (root G).
• Make sure to mute the A string with your second finger so it doesn’t ring out.

Cadd9 (Scale: C-D-E-F-G-A-B-C-D)

• Place your second finger on the 3rd fret of the A string (root C).
• Put your first finger on the 2nd fret of the D string (A).
• Place your pinky on the 3rd fret of the B string (D).
• Make sure the high E and G strings ring open, but do not play the low E string.

Dadd9 (Scale: D-E-F#-G-A-B-C#-D-E)

• Place your first finger on the 2nd fret of the D string (E).
• Put your second finger on the 2nd fret of the G string (A).
• Place your pinky on the 3rd fret of the B string (root D).
• Allow the high E string to ring open. Note: Do not play the low E or A strings.

These Add9 chords can be used anywhere you like. Experiment with them, have fun, and see what they sound like. If you don't like the way they sound, don’t use them. However, they can be a great way to spice things up, and you might be surprised at how they can liven up your chord progression or give it a new flavor. Most importantly, remember to always have fun with your guitar. I'll see you next time!

Remember always to have fun with your guitar and I’ll see you next time…

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About Mark Turko: Mark Turko is a professional guitar player and instructor with over 30 years of experience and teaches guitar lessons online.