Guitar arpeggio
C Major Add9 Guitar Arpeggio
C Major Add9 is a four-note added-tone arpeggio built from C, E, G, and D. It is also commonly called C Major Add 9, CAdd9, and CAdd2. Use it to study chord tones, interval formulas, and guitar fretboard positions.
- Chord tones
- C, E, G, D
- Formula
- 1 3 5 9
- Semitones
- 0 4 7 14
- Chord symbols
- Cadd9, Cadd2
- Also called
- C Major Add 9CAdd9CAdd2
How to read this arpeggio
The chord tones are shown as pitch classes first. In the fretboard tool, square markers represent C root notes, while circular markers represent the remaining tones in the arpeggio.
Use the interactive fretboard to locate the C root notes and connect the remaining major add9 chord tones across standard tuning.
This same arpeggio shape is also commonly called C Major Add 9 or CAdd9 or CAdd2.
Chord construction and defining tones
C major add9 is defined by 3 (E) and 9 (D). It keeps the complete major triad and adds the ninth without including a seventh.
Harmonic use
Use this arpeggio over Cadd9 and major chords where the ninth adds color but no major- or dominant-seventh quality is intended.
Practice this arpeggio on guitar
- Play the C Major Add9 arpeggio from one C root to the next in at least two fretboard positions, saying each note name and interval degree aloud.
- Pair 3 (E) and 9 (D) in different octaves and keep the ninth separated from the root when possible.
- Outline Cadd9 and use the ninth as a melodic upper extension before returning to the triad.
Fretboard diagram
Open this arpeggio in the fretboard tool
Start with C Major Add9 loaded, then adjust tuning, labels, colors, fret count, and orientation.
Open in interactive fretboard