C dominant 9th chord on piano
C9 is a dominant 9th chord built on C. It uses the notes C - E - G - B♭ - D and sounds rich and funky, a staple of funk, gospel and jazz.
- Notes
- C E G B♭ D
- 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
- C9
How to play C9 step by step
- Find C. C is the white key just left of each group of two black keys.
- Add E, 4 half steps above C.
- Add G, 7 half steps above C.
- Add B♭, 10 half steps above C.
- Add D, 14 half steps above C.
- 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 C dominant 9th chord?
The C dominant 9th chord (C9) contains 5 notes: C, E, G, B♭, D. Its formula is 1 - 3 - 5 - ♭7 - 9.
How do you play C9 on piano?
Play the root C alone with your left hand, then play E, G, B♭, D with your right hand. That spreads the five notes comfortably across both hands.