C Minor Major Ninth Guitar Chord (Cm(maj9)) | Easy Ways to Play It
Welcome to our tutorial on the C m(maj9) chord. This chord, a member of the Minor Chords family, is composed of the notes C, Eb, G, B, and D. The chord is built from the intervals 1, b3, 5, 7, and 9, which correspond to the Root, Minor Third, Perfect Fifth, Major Seventh, and Major Ninth, respectively.
Understanding the composition of this chord involves a deep dive into the world of guitar music theory. This theory involves the stacking of intervals to create the rich, complex sounds we associate with advanced chords like the C m(maj9).
By understanding the fretboard intervals, you can gain a deeper appreciation for how this chord is structured. The intervals in the C m(maj9) chord, for instance, create a unique sound that sets it apart from other minor chords.
It's also important to understand how to denote these chords based on their intervals. Our tutorial on guitar chords notation can help you master this essential skill.
The C m(maj9) chord is more advanced than beginner chords, and you can find more like it in our intermediate guitar chord tutorial. These chords often feature in jazz chord progressions, where the use of maj7, m7, and 7 chord types is common.
Finally, if you're unsure of how to name a chord based on its shape, our interactive guitar chords reverse namer tool can be a great help. This tool is especially useful when dealing with complex chords like the C m(maj9).
We hope this introduction has piqued your interest in the C m(maj9) chord. Stay tuned for our in-depth tutorial complete with chord diagrams and fretboard patterns to help you master this fascinating chord.
Notes of the C m(maj9) chord:
Chord Formula:
Fingerings for the Cm(maj9) guitar chord
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What are the notes and intervals that make up the Cm(maj9) chord?
The Cm(maj9) chord is composed of the notes C, Eb, G, B, and D. These notes correspond to the intervals of the Root (1), Minor Third (b3), Perfect Fifth (5), Major Seventh (7), and Major Ninth (9) above the root note C.
Why is the Cm(maj9) chord considered a 'minor' chord if it contains a Major Seventh?
The 'm' in Cm(maj9) signifies that the chord has a minor third (Eb) above the root (C), which defines its fundamental minor quality. The 'maj' in (maj9) indicates the presence of a Major Seventh (B), distinguishing it from a minor chord that might have a minor seventh.
In what musical contexts is the Cm(maj9) chord typically used?
The Cm(maj9) chord is an advanced chord often featured in jazz chord progressions. Its rich, complex sound makes it suitable for genres where sophisticated harmonies, including maj7, m7, and 7 chord types, are commonly employed.
What makes the Cm(maj9) chord sound unique compared to other minor chords?
The unique sound of the Cm(maj9) chord comes from its specific combination of intervals: a minor third, a perfect fifth, a major seventh, and a major ninth. This combination sets it apart from simpler minor chords, creating a distinct and often more sophisticated harmonic texture.