C#9(#11) Guitar Chord | How to Play The C# Dominant Ninth Sharp Eleventh Added Chord
Welcome to our in-depth tutorial on the C# 9(#11) chord. This complex chord belongs to the Dominant Chords family and is often featured in more advanced compositions. Composed of the notes C#, E#, G#, B, D#, and F##, the C# 9(#11) chord is built from a series of specific music intervals: 1 (Root), 3 (Major Third), 5 (Perfect Fifth), b7 (Minor Seventh), 9 (Major Ninth), and #11 (Augmented Fourth).
Understanding the notation of guitar chords is crucial for mastering the C# 9(#11) chord, as it relies heavily on the intervals that make up its unique sound. The fretboard intervals of this chord also play a significant role in its formation.
As part of the dominant (7) guitar chords family, the C# 9(#11) chord holds a dominant position in many chord progressions. It is particularly common in jazz chord progressions, where maj7, m7, and 7 chord types are frequently used.
Our tutorial will guide you through how to play the C# 9(#11) chord, with clear chord diagrams and fretboard patterns illustrating the tones that compose this chord. If you're interested in delving deeper into the theory behind chord construction, check out our tutorial on building chords by stacking intervals.
This chord is more advanced than the ones usually tackled by beginners, so if you're ready to take on a challenge and elevate your guitar skills, you've come to the right place. Let's dive into the world of the C# 9(#11) chord!
C# 9(#11) chord Notes:
How to create the Dominant Ninth Sharp Eleventh Added chord:
C#9(#11) Guitar Chord Diagrams
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Position 1
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FAQ
What are the specific notes and intervals that make up the C# 9(#11) chord?
The C# 9(#11) chord is composed of six distinct notes: C#, E#, G#, B, D#, and F##. These notes correspond to the following intervals relative to the C# root: the Root (1), Major Third (3), Perfect Fifth (5), Minor Seventh (b7), Major Ninth (9), and Augmented Eleventh (#11).
Why is the C# 9(#11) chord classified as a dominant chord?
This chord belongs to the dominant chord family because it contains the essential elements of a dominant 7th chord: a root, major third, and minor seventh (1-3-b7). The added 9th and #11th intervals are extensions that enhance and color this core dominant function, often creating tension that resolves to another chord.
What does the '#11' interval signify in the C# 9(#11) chord?
The '#11' in C# 9(#11) denotes an augmented eleventh. This interval is essentially a perfect fourth that has been raised by a half step. It adds a distinctive, often 'sharp' or 'cutting' sound to the chord, making it a popular choice for adding harmonic color and tension, especially in jazz.
When would a guitarist typically use a C# 9(#11) chord?
The C# 9(#11) chord is commonly found in more advanced compositions, particularly within jazz chord progressions. As a dominant chord with extended tensions, it's often used to create a richer, more complex harmonic texture or to lead to a subsequent chord with a strong sense of resolution.
Why are notes like E# and F## included in the C# 9(#11) chord instead of F natural or G natural?
Music theory requires intervals to be spelled correctly according to their scale degree. For a C# chord, the major third is E# (not F), and the augmented eleventh (derived from the fourth degree) is F## (not G natural). Although E# sounds like F natural and F## sounds like G natural (they are enharmonic equivalents), using E# and F## accurately reflects the intervallic structure from the C# root.
Why is the C# 9(#11) chord considered more advanced than other chords?
This chord is considered advanced due to its complex construction. It contains six notes and several extended intervals beyond a basic triad or 7th chord, including the 9th and augmented 11th. Mastering its unique fingerings on the guitar and understanding its theoretical role requires a solid foundation in music theory and fretboard knowledge.