Construction
E Major 9th = Root + Major 3rd + Perfect 5th + Major 7th + Major 2nd = E, G♯, B, D♯, F♯
| Note | Interval | Degree |
|---|---|---|
| E | Root | 1 |
| G♯ | Major 3rd | 3 |
| B | Perfect 5th | 5 |
| D♯ | Major 7th | 7 |
| F♯ | Major 2nd | 9 |
How to Play the E Major 9th
Right Hand (RH)
Place your right hand over the keys with the thumb on the root. Use the fingering: 1 – 2 – 3 – 4 – 5
Left Hand (LH)
For the left hand, start with your pinky on the root. Use the fingering: 5 – 4 – 3 – 2 – 1
E Major 9th : Frequently Asked Questions
What is the E Major 9th chord on piano?
The E Major 9th chord contains the notes E – G♯ – B – D♯ – F♯. On piano, play these notes together to sound the chord.
What notes are in the E Major 9th chord?
The E Major 9th chord (Emaj9) contains five notes: E (root), G# (major third), B (perfect fifth), D# (major seventh), and F# (major ninth). It is Emaj7 with an added ninth.
How does Emaj9 differ from E9?
Emaj9 has a major seventh (D#). E9 has a minor seventh (D). Emaj9 is dreamy; E9 is dominant and bluesy.
How is Emaj9 used in music?
Emaj9 is a lush tonic in E Major. It appears in contemporary jazz, fusion, dream pop, and atmospheric music.
What songs use Major 9th chords?
Major 9th chords are signature sounds of neo-soul, jazz, lo-fi, and dream pop.
How does Emaj9 differ from Eadd9?
Emaj9 includes the major seventh (D#). Eadd9 has no seventh.
Do I need to play all five notes?
No: drop the fifth: E–G#–D#–F# is the practical voicing.