Chord & FretCm(maj9) on cavaquinho
On the cavaquinho, four steel strings tuned D–G–B–D pack the chord into a small, bright space — every finger counts. In this CmCmCmCm(maj9) voicing the bass is Eb and the shape runs from fret 1 to 4, ringing 1 open string. Because this instrument has fewer strings than Cm(maj9) has notes, one note — usually the fifth — is normally dropped without losing the chord's identity. Its four steel strings give a bright, sharp attack that cuts through the mix and drives the beat.
Notes in Cm(maj9): C – Eb – G – B – DFormula: 1 – b3 – 5 – 7 – 9In the formula, the numbers count steps of the major scale starting from the note that names the chord; "b" lowers a half step, "#" raises one — and a slash names the bass note.
Where to use it: Soundtracks and jazz; the widened version of the AmMaj7 step in AmAmAmAm → AmMaj7 → Am7Am7Am7Am7 → Am6.
This is just one shape of Cm(maj9) on cavaquinho. In Chord & Fret, you check it note by note, playing any shape as an arpeggio; open every variation on the neck, grouped by bass note; and set a capo — the diagrams redraw above it. Start free. Unlock everything with Pro. Plays offline.
See the whole neck in Chord & Fret →Part of the Extended family.