Construction
C♯ Dominant 11th = Root + Major 3rd + Perfect 5th + Minor 7th + Major 2nd + Perfect 4th = C♯, E♯, G♯, B, D♯, F♯
| Note | Interval | Degree |
|---|---|---|
| C♯ | Root | 1 |
| E♯ | Major 3rd | 3 |
| G♯ | Perfect 5th | 5 |
| B | Minor 7th | ♭7 |
| D♯ | Major 2nd | 9 |
| F♯ | Perfect 4th | 11 |
Key Signature
A dominant chord points home to the key a fifth below its root: the C♯ Dominant 11th is the V (dominant) of F♯ Major, so the relevant key signature is that key's — 6 sharps (F♯, C♯, G♯, D♯, A♯, E♯). Spelled as a scale, these notes are C# Mixolydian.
F♯C♯G♯D♯A♯E♯
Order of sharps
Sharps are added to a key signature in a fixed order. Each new sharp key adds the next sharp on the list.
F♯C♯G♯D♯A♯E♯B♯
Mnemonic: Father Charles Goes Down And Ends Battle
Chords in the Key of C♯ Major
These are the triads built on each degree of C♯ Major:
Scales That Include the C♯ Dominant 11th
- F# Major (V)
- Eb Minor (VII)
- G# Dorian (IV)
- A# Phrygian (III)
- B Lydian (II)
- C# Mixolydian (I)
- D# Aeolian (VII)
- E# Locrian (VI)
C♯ Dominant 11th : Frequently Asked Questions
What is the C♯ Dominant 11th chord on piano?
The C♯ Dominant 11th chord contains the notes C♯ – E♯ – G♯ – B – D♯ – F♯. On piano, play these notes together to sound the chord.
What is the C# piano chord?
The C# piano chord (written C♯ Dominant 11th) uses the same keys: C♯ – E♯ – G♯ – B – D♯ – F♯. The # and ♯ symbols name the same black key.
What notes are in the C# Dominant 11th chord?
The C# Dominant 11th chord (C#11) contains 6 notes: C#, F, G#, B, D#, F#. Formula: R-M3-P5-m7-M9-P11.
How is C#11 used in music?
C#11 is used in jazz, fusion, and contemporary music to add harmonic color. It appears as a dominant or tonic chord depending on context.
What is the scale degree formula for C#11?
C#11 uses scale degrees 1-3-5-b7-9-11, giving it its distinctive sound.