Cmaj9 chord on cavaquinho
Cmaj9 is the major ninth chord: C, E, G, B and D (1–3–5–7–9). On cavaquinho, the diagram shape is 2 5 0 0, with E in the bass.
On the cavaquinho, four steel strings tuned D–G–B–D pack the chord into a small, bright space — every finger counts. In this Cmaj9 voicing the bass is E and the shape runs from fret 2 to 5, ringing 2 open strings. Because this instrument has fewer strings than Cmaj9 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 and formula of Cmaj9
Notes in Cmaj9: C – E – G – B – DFormula: 1 – 3 – 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
Ballads, bossa nova and neo-soul love this chord to open or close a song. It is the natural pick when a plain maj7 feels too plain — the ninth adds an extra glow without disturbing the rest.
See also
Part of the Extended family.