CMaj9(add13)

The CMaj9(add13) chord makes it possible to play the 13th without having the sharp 11th, and this is most commonly used as the 11th can often clash with other parts! To indicate this, we can say:

Cmaj7(add 13)
Cmaj9(add 13)

By saying ‘add,’ we’re told not to play the sharp 11th.

The CMaj9(add13) chord (also known as CMaj9(13), C Major 9 (add13) and C△9(add13)), has a distinctive and unique tone.

We have to sharpen the 11th as otherwise there would be a dissonant half step between the 3rd.

The notes in CMaj9(add13) are:

A
D
B
G
E
C

Within this chord also contains other chords which you can use to superimpose over a chord progression, particularly useful when soloing.

From the Root: C△9(add13)
From the 3rd: E-7
From the 5th: G△(add9)
From the 7th: B-7

Bass

Treble

Arpeggio

A series of individual notes that form the chord are called an arpeggio. Each note is a chord tone.

The Major Scale

The Major Scale is perfect to use over Cmaj9(add13).

CMaj9(add13) Backing Track

Use The Major Scale to play along to CMaj9(add13).

Find some lines you can play over it by utilising your creativity. Train your ear to hear this chord by playing the backing track below.

My books are brimming with several exercises and permutations on how to play intervals, scales, melodies, and more, so if you’re struggling to come up with new ideas, check them out!

This chord cannot be inverted because doing so will result in the creation of whole new chords.