I-IV-V foundation
This is the core major-key movement behind blues, rock, country, and pop progressions.
Guitar chord companion
C Add 9 Chord
Learn the C Add 9 chord on guitar with chord tones, intervals, and interactive fretboard shapes.
1C3E5G9D
Playable C Add 9 Chord voicings
Start with these chord-box shapes, then use the full fretboard below to see every chord tone.
C shape, open position
Low to high strings: x 3 2 0 3 0
A shape, fret 3
Low to high strings: x 3 5 7 5 3
G shape, fret 5
Low to high strings: 8 5 5 5 5 8
E shape, fret 8
Low to high strings: 8 10 x 9 x 10
D shape, fret 10
Low to high strings: 12 x 10 12 13 10
Full fretboard map
Every C Add 9 Chord chord tone across the neck, with roots highlighted for quick orientation.
Frets 0–24. Select a position or tap a note to hear it.
CAGED
Progression examples using C Add 9
Try these progressions to hear the harmony in context. On bass, outline each chord with individual target tones.
I-vi-IV-V loop
A familiar pop progression that balances a stable tonic with relative minor color.
Chord Tones
| Degree | Interval | Note |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Root | C |
| 3 | M3 | E |
| 5 | P5 | G |
| 9 | M9 | D |
Scales Containing the Complete Formula
Complete Formula
1 – 3 – 5 – 9
Compound degrees retain their names: 9, 11, and 13 are extensions. A voicing may place their pitches in a closer register.