C#m9

General info

Full name

C# Minor 9

Symbol

C#m9

Root

C#

Quality

Minor 9

Chord notes

Functions & resolutions

Typical function in key

viRelative tonic (vi)E major

Stability / tension

Stable — can serve as minor tonic

Most common resolutions

G#G# MajorF#mF# MinorBB Major

Unstable degrees

4F#

b7B

resolves down to the resolution tonic

Main resolution

C#m9source

G#G# Major

Minor chord C#m is a stable tonic in the minor key of the same root. Typical motion leads to the subdominant (iv) or dominant (V).

Other resolutions

C#m9source

Deceptive resolution

AA Major

A minor chord can unexpectedly move to the major chord on the bVI degree — a deceptive-resolution effect.

C#m9source

Modal resolution

BB Major

In Dorian and Aeolian modes, the minor chord is the tonic. Typical modal motion: i → bVII or i → iv.

C#m9source

Jazz reharmonization

F#7F# Dominant 7

In jazz, a minor chord often serves as ii in a ii-V-I progression. Its "resolution" is the dominant a 4th up.

C#m9source

Functional resolution

F#F# Major

As the vi degree in major, a minor chord can move to IV or ii, creating subdominant motion.

Features

Character

Minor, with a minor 7th and 9th

Characteristic interval

Minor third (m3), 9th

Description

The minor 3rd and minor 7th form m7, while the major 9th adds a diatonic extension. The chord is denser than m7 but retains minor quality.

Application

• ii9 in major
• Minor tonic in jazz
• Neo-soul and R&B

Voicing & structure

Harmony

Compatible scales

All chord tones are contained in these scales — use them for improvisation.