G#maj9

G# Major 9

Octaves

Musical context

How the chord relates to the scale, mode, key and progression.

Theory

General info

Full name
G# Major 9
Symbol
G#maj9
Root
G#
Quality
Major 9

Chord notes

1G#root
3B#major 3rd
5D#perfect 5th
7Gmajor 7th
2A#major 2nd

Functions & resolutions

Typical function in key
IVSubdominant (IV)Eb major
Stability / tension
Stable — can serve as major tonic
Most common resolutions
Unstable degrees
7G
1G#
resolves up to the root
Main resolution
G#maj9source
D#D# Major
Major chord G# is a stable tonic. As tonic it doesn't require resolution, but in a progression context typically moves to IV or V.
Other resolutions
G#maj9source
Deceptive resolution
FmF Minor
As the V degree, a major chord can defy expectations by moving to vi instead of I (deceptive cadence).
G#maj9source
Modal resolution
F#F# Major
In modal context, a major chord can freely move to bVII, bIII, or bVI — characteristic of Mixolydian mode.
G#maj9source
Jazz reharmonization
G#maj7G# Major 7
In jazz, a major chord is enriched to maj7, 6/9, or add9 and can smoothly transition into a ii-V of another key (modulation).
G#maj9source
Functional resolution
D#D# Major
As the IV degree (subdominant), a major chord can resolve to V or directly to I (plagal cadence).

Features

Character
Major, with a major 7th and 9th
Characteristic interval
Major 7th (M7), 9th
Description
The major 7th creates semitone tension toward the octave, while the major 9th extends the major seventh chord. Separating extensions by register clarifies the structure.
Application
  • Tonic Imaj9
  • Neo-soul and jazz
  • Sustained chordal textures

Voicing & structure

Root position

v1G#(G#4)Bass
root
v2B#(B#5)M3from G#
v3D#(D#5)m3from B#
v4G(G5)M3from D#
v5A#(A#5)m3from G

Harmony

Compatible scales

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

This chord on guitar 🎸

See how G#maj9 looks on guitar.

Explore

Circle of fifths

Highlighted major keys contain this chord among their diatonic harmonies.

CAmGEmDBmAF#mEC#mBG#mF#D#mDbBbmAbFmEbCmBbGmFDmAbmajor
Relative key
Dominant
Subdominant
Key signature
4 flats (Bb, Eb, Ab, Db)

Practice

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Frequently Asked Questions