The C 9♭5 chord is a five-note chord made up of C, E, G♭, B♭, and D. It is built from a root, major third, diminished fifth, minor seventh, and major ninth.
Construction
C 9♭5 = Root + Major 3rd + Diminished 5th + Minor 7th + Major 2nd = C · E · G♭ · B♭ · D
| Note | Interval | Degree |
|---|---|---|
| C | Root | 1 |
| E | Major 3rd | 3 |
| G♭ | Diminished 5th | ♭5 |
| B♭ | Minor 7th | ♭7 |
| D | Major 2nd | 9 |
Key Signature
A chord has no key signature of its own, but the C 9♭5 is the tonic (I) chord of C Major, whose key signature has no sharps or flats.
Chords in the Key of C Major
These are the triads built on each degree of the C major scale:
Same Notes, Other Names
The notes C – E – G♭ – B♭ – D aren’t exclusive to this chord. Depending on which note is the bass and how the chord functions, the same pitches also spell:
C 9♭5 — Frequently Asked Questions
What is the C 9♭5 chord on piano?
The C 9♭5 chord contains the notes C – E – G♭ – B♭ – D. On piano, play these notes together to sound the chord.
What notes are in the C 9♭5 chord?
The C 9♭5 chord (C9♭5) contains 5 notes: C, E, Gb, Bb, D. Formula: R-M3-d5-m7-M9.
How is C9♭5 used in music?
C9♭5 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 C9♭5?
C9♭5 uses scale degrees 1-3-b5-b7-9, giving it its distinctive sound.