Easy Ways To Play The E9(#5) Guitar Chord
Welcome to our in-depth tutorial on the E 9(#5) chord. This unique chord belongs to the Augmented Chords family and is composed of the notes E, G#, B#, D, and F#. It's built on a series of music intervals, specifically 1 (Root), 3 (Major Third), #5 (Augmented Fifth), b7 (Minor Seventh), and 9 (Major Ninth).
Understanding the music intervals that compose this chord is crucial to mastering its sound and placement on the fretboard. If you're new to the concept of intervals, we recommend checking out our comprehensive tutorial on fretboard intervals and our guide on how to denote chords based on these intervals.
The E 9(#5) chord is not your typical beginner's chord. It requires a deeper understanding of the guitar fretboard and chord structure. If you're looking for a challenge beyond basic chords, our tutorial on intermediate guitar chords can provide you with the necessary knowledge and skills.
Furthermore, the E 9(#5) chord is often found in more complex genres such as jazz. If you're interested in exploring jazz chord progressions that often use chords like the E 9(#5), check out our tutorial on jazz chord progressions.
In this tutorial, we will provide you with detailed chord diagrams and fretboard patterns showing the tones that compose the E 9(#5) chord. We will also explain how to play this chord effectively, making use of our tutorial on ninth guitar chords as a reference.
Ready to dive into the world of augmented chords and expand your guitar skills? Let's get started with the E 9(#5) chord!
E 9(#5) chord Notes:
Tones of the Dominant Ninth Sharp Fifth chord:
Fingerings for the E9(#5) guitar chord
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Position 1
Barre
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FAQ
What specifically makes the E 9(#5) chord an 'augmented' chord?
The E 9(#5) chord is classified as an augmented chord because of its Augmented Fifth interval (#5). While it also includes a Minor Seventh (b7) and a Major Ninth (9), the distinguishing feature that places it in the Augmented Chords family is the presence of the #5 interval.
What are the exact notes that make up the E 9(#5) chord?
The E 9(#5) chord is composed of five specific notes: E (Root), G# (Major Third), B# (Augmented Fifth), D (Minor Seventh), and F# (Major Ninth).
How does the E 9(#5) chord differ from a standard E9 chord?
The primary difference lies in the fifth interval. A standard E9 chord would include a natural fifth (B), while the E 9(#5) chord features an augmented fifth (B#). This altered fifth is what gives the E 9(#5) its unique 'augmented' characteristic and distinct sound, while both chords share the root, major third, minor seventh, and major ninth.
Why is the note B# used in the E 9(#5) chord instead of C?
The B# is used to maintain correct theoretical spelling based on intervals. Starting from the root E, the fifth scale degree is B. To create an augmented fifth, you raise the B by a half-step, resulting in B#. Although B# is enharmonically equivalent to C, calling it B# correctly reflects its function as the augmented fifth interval (1-#5) in relation to the E root.
In what musical situations or genres would I typically encounter or use an E 9(#5) chord?
The E 9(#5) chord is generally found in more complex musical contexts and genres. It is frequently utilized in jazz music, where its unique, tension-filled sound can add color and movement to chord progressions. It's considered a chord for exploring sounds beyond basic harmonies.
What do the '9' and '(#5)' signify in the chord name E 9(#5)?
In the E 9(#5) chord name, 'E' is the root. The '9' indicates the presence of a Major Ninth interval (F#) in addition to the root, third, and seventh. The '(#5)' explicitly signifies that the fifth interval is augmented (B#), rather than a natural (perfect) fifth (B) or a diminished fifth. This notation precisely defines the chord's unique structure.