E dominant 9th chord on piano
E9 is a dominant 9th chord built on E. It uses the notes E - G♯ - B - D - F♯ and sounds rich and funky, a staple of funk, gospel and jazz.
- Notes
- E G♯ B D F♯
- 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
- E9
How to play E9 step by step
- Find E. E is the white key just right of each group of two black keys.
- Add G♯, 4 half steps above E.
- Add B, 7 half steps above E.
- Add D, 10 half steps above E.
- Add F♯, 14 half steps above E.
- 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 E dominant 9th chord?
The E dominant 9th chord (E9) contains 5 notes: E, G♯, B, D, F♯. Its formula is 1 - 3 - 5 - ♭7 - 9.
How do you play E9 on piano?
Play the root E alone with your left hand, then play G♯, B, D, F♯ with your right hand. That spreads the five notes comfortably across both hands.