Db Dominant 9th
Notes:Db – F – Ab – B – Eb
Formula:R-M3-P5-m7-M9
Intervals:P1-M3-P5-m7-M9
Scale Degrees:1-3-5-b7-9
Introduction
The Db Dominant 9th piano chord (Db9) consists of the notes Db, F, Ab, B, Eb. Formula: R-M3-P5-m7-M9 | Scale degrees: 1-3-5-b7-9.
Enharmonic equivalent: D♭ is enharmonically equivalent to C♯. See C# Dominant 9th.
Notes
Db Dominant 9th Inversions
| Position | Notes |
|---|---|
| Root Position | Db4 – F4 – Ab4 – B4 – Eb5 |
| 1st Inversion | F4 – Ab4 – B4 – Eb5 – Db6 |
| 2nd Inversion | Ab4 – B4 – Eb5 – Db6 – F6 |
Key Signature
The key of Db Dominant 9th has 5 flats: B♭, E♭, A♭, D♭, G♭.
B♭E♭A♭D♭G♭
Theory: Intervals
Formula: R-M3-P5-m7-M9
Intervals: P1-M3-P5-m7-M9
The Db Dominant 9th is built by stacking intervals from the root note. The formula R-M3-P5-m7-M9 describes the scale degrees used. The intervals P1-M3-P5-m7-M9 show the distance between each note in the chord.
Db Dominant 9th — Frequently Asked Questions
What notes are in the Db Dominant 9th chord?
The Db Dominant 9th chord (Db9) contains 5 notes: Db, F, Ab, B, Eb. Formula: R-M3-P5-m7-M9.
How is Db9 used in music?
Db9 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 Db9?
Db9 uses scale degrees 1-3-5-b7-9, giving it its distinctive sound.
Practice Tips
- Start by placing your thumb on Db and spacing remaining fingers across the chord.
- Practice Db9 slowly with separate hands before combining.
- Listen carefully to the tension created by the altered tones in this chord.
- Try voicing Db9 in different octaves to find the most comfortable position.
- Resolve Db9 to a nearby chord to hear its function in context.