A dominant 9th chord on piano
A9 is a dominant 9th chord built on A. It uses the notes A - C♯ - E - G - B and sounds rich and funky, a staple of funk, gospel and jazz.
- Notes
- A C♯ E G B
- Formula
- 1 - 3 - 5 - ♭7 - 9
- Right hand fingering
- 1 - 2 - 3 - 5 on the upper four notes
- Left hand fingering
- 5 on the root
- Chord symbol
- A9
How to play A9 step by step
- Find A. A is the white key between the second and third black keys of the group of three.
- Add C♯, 4 half steps above A.
- Add E, 7 half steps above A.
- Add G, 10 half steps above A.
- Add B, 14 half steps above A.
- Press all 5 keys together with fingers 1 - 2 - 3 - 5 on the upper four notes of your right hand. Keep your wrist level and let the weight of your arm do the work.
Frequently asked questions
What notes are in the A dominant 9th chord?
The A dominant 9th chord (A9) contains 5 notes: A, C♯, E, G, B. Its formula is 1 - 3 - 5 - ♭7 - 9.
How do you play A9 on piano?
Play the root A alone with your left hand, then play C♯, E, G, B with your right hand. That spreads the five notes comfortably across both hands.