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The Major 9th Piano Chord

Lisa Witt  /  Chord Theory  /  UPDATED Jan 10, 2023

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Looking for that perfect chord to lighten the atmosphere? You need the Major 9th chord. 

It’s simple to create. For example, to build a major chord based on C you would play C-E-G. Then, count 9 up from the root note (C) and you will have your 9th. So a C major 9th would be C-E-G-D.

Having the high D on top gives this chord its open and light sound making it a great chord to play when you want a ballad type of sound. Want to take it to the next level? Try adding in the major 7th for added effect.

It’s a simple chord with a big effect. Perfect to add to your chord toolkit.

Have fun,

Lisa Witt


Lisa Witt has been teaching piano for more than 20 years and in that time has helped hundreds of students learn to play the songs they love. Lisa received classical piano training through the Royal Conservatory of Music, but she has since embraced popular music and playing by ear in order to accompany herself and others. Learn more about Lisa.

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