Em(maj9) Guitar Chords Explained | E Minor Major Ninth
Welcome to our tutorial on the E m(maj9) chord. This chord, belonging to the Minor Chords family, is composed of the notes E, G, B, D#, and F#. The intervals that build this chord are 1, b3, 5, 7, and 9. In other words, it's composed of a Root, Minor Third, Perfect Fifth, Major Seventh, and Major Ninth.
Understanding the intervals that make up a chord is crucial to mastering the fretboard. If you need a refresher on this, our tutorial about fretboard intervals can help you out. Similarly, if you're unsure about how these intervals translate into chord notation, our tutorial on chord notation can provide some clarity.
The E m(maj9) chord is not a beginner's chord. It's a more complex structure that requires a solid understanding of how chords are built by stacking intervals. If you're ready to take on this challenge, you're already on your way to becoming an intermediate player.
As a member of the ninth (9) guitar chords family, the E m(maj9) chord is often used in jazz progressions. If you're interested in exploring more about this, our tutorial about jazz chord progressions can be a great resource.
Lastly, if you're struggling to name a chord shape on the fretboard, our interactive tool to analyze chord shapes can be a handy assistant. Enjoy learning the E m(maj9) chord!
E m(maj9) chord Notes:
Formula of the Minor Major Ninth chord:
Fingerings for the E Minor Major Ninth guitar chord
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If you have difficulties with bar chord shapes, check the Bar Chords Tips tutorial.
You can also use this accessible chords page with written diagrams instruction.
Position 1
Barre
Open
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FAQ
What specific notes form the E m(maj9) guitar chord?
The E m(maj9) chord is constructed using five distinct notes: E, G, B, D#, and F#. These notes correspond to its root, minor third, perfect fifth, major seventh, and major ninth intervals, respectively.
What do the intervals 1, b3, 5, 7, and 9 represent in the E m(maj9) chord?
These numbers represent the fundamental intervals that define the E m(maj9) chord. They signify the Root (1), Minor Third (b3), Perfect Fifth (5), Major Seventh (7), and Major Ninth (9). Understanding these intervals is crucial for comprehending how the chord is built and how it functions musically.
Why is the E m(maj9) chord considered a more advanced or complex chord for guitarists?
The E m(maj9) chord is not typically a beginner's chord because of its complex structure. It involves five different notes and requires a solid understanding of how chords are built by stacking specific intervals, distinguishing it from simpler three or four-note chords.
What musical genres or styles commonly feature the E m(maj9) chord?
As a member of the ninth (9) guitar chords family, the E m(maj9) chord is frequently utilized in jazz progressions. Its sophisticated sound makes it suitable for adding harmonic color in such contexts.
Is the E m(maj9) chord fundamentally a minor or a major chord?
Despite the 'maj' in its name, the E m(maj9) chord is fundamentally a minor chord. Its core structure includes a Root, Minor Third (b3), and Perfect Fifth, which establishes its minor quality. The 'maj' specifically refers to the Major Seventh interval, which, along with the Major Ninth, adds to its unique, complex sound.
What is the key difference between a basic E minor chord and an E m(maj9) chord?
A basic E minor chord typically consists of only the Root, Minor Third, and Perfect Fifth (E, G, B). The E m(maj9) chord expands upon this by adding two more intervals: a Major Seventh (D#) and a Major Ninth (F#). These additional notes contribute to its richer, more complex harmonic quality.