How to play C Add 9 on guitar
These shapes are for standard tuning (E A D G B E). The first is the easiest, and the others sit in different positions on the neck. Playing in another tuning? Pick it above the diagrams and the shapes are redrawn for it.
Shape 1: x30030
- Press the 5th string (A) at fret 3.
- Press the 2nd string (B) at fret 3.
- Let the 4th, 3rd, 1st strings ring open.
- Don't play the 6th string.
Shape 2: 855558 (from fret 5)
- Lay your index finger flat across the 2nd to 5th strings at fret 5 (a barre).
- Press the 6th string (E) at fret 8.
- Press the 1st string (e) at fret 8.
Shape 3: xx(10)98(10) (from fret 8)
- Press the 4th string (D) at fret 10.
- Press the 3rd string (G) at fret 9.
- Press the 2nd string (B) at fret 8.
- Press the 1st string (e) at fret 10.
- Don't play the 6th, 5th strings.
The numbers in the shape name list the fret for each string from the lowest (thickest) to the highest, with x meaning that string is not played and 0 meaning it rings open.
Notes in C Add 9
| Note | Role |
|---|---|
| C | 1 (root) |
| E | 3 |
| G | 5 |
| D | 9 |
The formula for C Add 9 (add9) is 1 3 5 9: take the root, then the scale degrees listed.
When to use Cadd9
Add9 chords are major chords with a shimmering extra note on top and no seventh. They add colour without the jazz sound of a major 7th, and are a staple of modern pop and acoustic songwriting.
Other C chords
C, Cm, C7, Cmaj7, Cm7, Csus2, Csus4, C°, C+, C6, Cø7
Other add 9 chords on guitar
D♭add9, Dadd9, E♭add9, Eadd9, Fadd9, F♯add9, Gadd9, A♭add9, Aadd9, B♭add9, Badd9
Frequently asked questions
How do you play C Add 9 on guitar?
The easiest Cadd9 shape on guitar is x30030 (Press the 5th string (A) at fret 3. Press the 2nd string (B) at fret 3. Let the 4th, 3rd, 1st strings ring open. Don't play the 6th string.)
What notes are in C Add 9?
C Add 9 (Cadd9) contains the notes C E G D. The formula is 1 3 5 9.
How many guitar shapes are there for Cadd9?
There are many. This page shows 3 common ones at different positions, easiest first. Moving a barre shape up the neck gives the same chord type on other roots.
See C Add 9 on ukulele, check its notes in the chord finder, or transpose a whole song with the chord transposer. Browse the full guitar chord library.