C# Dominant 7 Sharp 9 Guitar Arpeggio

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 dominant 7 sharp 9 chord tones across standard tuning.

This same arpeggio shape is also commonly called C# Dominant Seven Sharp Nine or C# 7 Sharp 9.

Chord construction and defining tones

C# dominant 7 sharp 9 is defined by 3 (E#), b7 (B), and #9 (D##). The chord retains its major third and flat seventh while the sharp ninth adds an altered upper tension.

Harmonic use

Use this arpeggio over C#7#9, altered dominant harmony, and dominant sounds that deliberately combine the major third with the sharp ninth.

Practice this arpeggio on guitar

1. Play the C# Dominant 7 Sharp 9 arpeggio from one C# root to the next in at least two fretboard positions, saying each note name and interval degree aloud.
2. Play 3 (E#), b7 (B), and #9 (D##) in small groups and keep the major third and sharp ninth in separate octaves so both colors remain clear.
3. Emphasize the sharp ninth over C#7#9, then resolve it by semitone when the harmony changes.

Related arpeggio pages

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Arpeggio diagrams by tuning