Cadd9 Chord
How to play C add9 on guitar — a major chord with extra shimmer; very common in worship and pop.
- Notes
- C – E – G – D
- Frets (low → high)
- x 3 2 0 3 0
- Difficulty
- Easy
- Shape
- Movable shape at fret 2
How to play Cadd9, step by step
- 1Put your middle finger on the 3rd fret of the A string (5th).
- 2Put your index finger on the 2nd fret of the D string (4th).
- 3Put your ring finger on the 3rd fret of the B string (2nd).
- 4Leave the low E string out — mute it with the side of a finger, or just avoid it as you strum.
- 5Let the G and high E strings ring open.
- 6Strum slowly and check every string sounds cleanly; if one buzzes, press closer to the fret wire and arch your fingers so they clear the neighbouring strings.
What makes a added ninth chord
A major chord with extra shimmer; very common in worship and pop.
| Note | Interval | Semitones above C |
|---|---|---|
| C | root | 0 |
| E | major 3rd | 4 |
| G | 5th | 7 |
| D | 9th | 2 |
Other C chords
Same root, different colour. Swapping one of these into a progression is the quickest way to change its mood without changing the key.
Every add9 chord
The same shape moved around the neck. If you can play Cadd9 you are a fret-slide away from all of these.
Frequently asked questions
- What notes are in the Cadd9 chord?
- Cadd9 is made of C, E, G, D — the root, major 3rd, 5th, 9th of C.
- Is Cadd9 hard to play?
- No — Cadd9 sits at x 3 2 0 3 0 and is rated easy, so it is comfortable for most beginners.
Got a chart full of chords like Cadd9?
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