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, C#Add9, and C#Add2. 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
- C#add9, C#add2
- Also called
- C# Major Add 9C#Add9C#Add2
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 C#Add9 or C#Add2.
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 C#add9 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 C#add9 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