D dominant 9th chord on piano
D9 is a dominant 9th chord built on D. It uses the notes D - F♯ - A - C - E and sounds rich and funky, a staple of funk, gospel and jazz.
- Notes
- D F♯ A C E
- 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
- D9
How to play D9 step by step
- Find D. D is the white key between the two black keys.
- Add F♯, 4 half steps above D.
- Add A, 7 half steps above D.
- Add C, 10 half steps above D.
- Add E, 14 half steps above D.
- 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 D dominant 9th chord?
The D dominant 9th chord (D9) contains 5 notes: D, F♯, A, C, E. Its formula is 1 - 3 - 5 - ♭7 - 9.
How do you play D9 on piano?
Play the root D alone with your left hand, then play F♯, A, C, E with your right hand. That spreads the five notes comfortably across both hands.