F#madd9
F# Minor Add9
Octaves
Musical context
How the chord relates to the scale, mode, key and progression.
Theory
General info
- Full name
- F# Minor Add9
- Symbol
- F#madd9
- Root
- F#
- Quality
- Minor Add9
Chord notes
1F#root
b3Aminor 3rd
5C#perfect 5th
2G#major 2nd
Functions & resolutions
- Typical function in key
- ii
- Stability / tension
- Stable — can serve as minor tonic
- Main resolution
- Minor chord F#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
- A minor chord can unexpectedly move to the major chord on the bVI degree — a deceptive-resolution effect.In Dorian and Aeolian modes, the minor chord is the tonic. Typical modal motion: i → bVII or i → iv.In jazz, a minor chord often serves as ii in a ii-V-I progression. Its "resolution" is the dominant a 4th up.As the vi degree in major, a minor chord can move to IV or ii, creating subdominant motion.
Features
- Character
- Minor, with an added 9th and no 7th
- Characteristic interval
- Minor third (m3), 9th without 7th (add9)
- Description
- The minor third sets the minor character, while the ninth (without seventh) adds openness. Sounds less dense than m9.
- Application
- Indie rock, alternative
- Fingerstyle arpeggios
- Minor textures without jazz density
Voicing & structure
Root position
v1F#(F#4)Bass
v2A(A4) m3from F#
v3C#(C#5) M3from A
v4G#(G#5) P5from C#
Harmony
Compatible scales
All chord tones are contained in these scales — use them for improvisation.
This chord on guitar 🎸
See how F#madd9 looks on guitar.
Circle of fifths
Highlighted major keys contain this chord among their diatonic harmonies.
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Practice
Keyboard Trainer
Reinforce it in practice — play and name notes on the interactive keyboard.
Test yourself
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