Play and Understand the C13b9 Guitar Chord

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C 13(b9) position 3 guitar chord diagram

The intriguing C 13(b9) chord, a rich and complex dominant voicing, brings sophisticated jazz colors to your playing. Composed of the notes C, E, G, Bb, Db, F, and A, its distinct sound is built upon the intervals 1 (Root), 3 (Major Third), 5 (Perfect Fifth), b7 (Minor Seventh), b9 (Minor Ninth), 11 (Perfect Eleventh), and 13 (Major Thirteenth). Use our interactive virtual fretboard below as your personal lab to explore this chord, hearing its playback and instantly verifying your finger placement with real-time mic feedback.

Understanding how this sophisticated extended harmony is constructed is key to mastering it. Beyond the foundational minor seventh (b7) interval, the added minor ninth (b9) and major thirteenth (13) create its characteristic tension. If you're keen to deepen your understanding of how these intricate chords are formed by stacking intervals, explore our chord construction guide. For a broader view of this chord's family, dive into our dedicated resource on dominant guitar chords, or specifically, how ninth chords build harmonic complexity.

Ready to apply what you've learned? Start by experimenting with the interactive fretboard above to truly internalize the sound and feel of the C 13(b9). Afterward, scroll down to find various diagrams, presented from the easiest to the most challenging voicings, along with deeper theory insights, practical examples in different musical keys, and songs where this chord shines. Your musical journey awaits – play first, analyze second!

Notes in the C 13(b9) chord:

C E G Bb Db F A

How the Dominant Thirteen Flat Nine chord is built:

#11

How To Play The C Dominant Thirteen Flat Nine chord on guitar

Position 1
Movable

Find more shapes in our all guitar chords online library. If you prefer a printable pdf, download the Free Guitar Chords Chart Pdf

You can also use this accessible C13(b9) chord page, with written diagram instructions and screen-reader support for blind users.

Play This Chord With Other Roots

C 13(b9) | D 13(b9) | E 13(b9) | F 13(b9) | G 13(b9) | A 13(b9) | B 13(b9) | C#13(b9) | D#13(b9) | F#13(b9) | G#13(b9) | A#13(b9) | Ab13(b9) | Bb13(b9) | Db13(b9) | Eb13(b9) | Gb13(b9)

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FAQ

What defines the C 13(b9) chord?

The C 13(b9) chord is a complex dominant chord identified by its unique composition of notes and intervals. It includes the root (C), major third (E), perfect fifth (G), minor seventh (Bb), minor ninth (Db), perfect eleventh (F), and major thirteenth (A).

Why is the C 13(b9) chord considered a 'dominant' chord?

The C 13(b9) chord is a member of the Dominant Chords family. This family of chords is known for its distinct sound and widespread use across various musical genres, though the tutorial focuses on its complex extensions rather than a generic definition of 'dominant'.

What makes the C 13(b9) chord complex or challenging to learn?

The C 13(b9) chord is considered complex due to its dense structure, involving seven different notes and extended intervals like the minor ninth, perfect eleventh, and major thirteenth. Learning it effectively requires a good understanding of musical intervals and how chords are constructed.

In what musical contexts or genres is the C 13(b9) chord typically used?

Given its sophisticated and rich sound, the C 13(b9) chord is typically employed in more advanced musical compositions, especially within the jazz genre. It adds depth and complexity to music.

What are the specific intervals that build the C 13(b9) chord?

The C 13(b9) chord is built using the following intervals relative to its root (C): 1 (Root), 3 (Major Third), 5 (Perfect Fifth), b7 (Minor Seventh), b9 (Minor Ninth), 11 (Perfect Eleventh), and 13 (Major Thirteenth).

What foundational knowledge is helpful before attempting to learn the C 13(b9) chord?

Before tackling the C 13(b9) chord, it is highly beneficial to have a solid understanding of musical intervals and the fundamental principles of chord construction. This theoretical background helps in grasping how such a complex chord is put together.