F Major Ninth Chord

Chord Tones: F Major Ninth Chord

Symbol: maj9, M9, △9 — Formula: 1-3-5-7-9

Chord Notation

Roman numeral (e.g. I, IV, V) and Nashville Number notation are key-dependent. See Keys pages for chord function within specific keys.

Inversions

Harmonic Function

The F major ninth chord commonly functions as the subdominant (IV) in C major — plagal cadence endpoint. Its harmonic role varies by key — in major keys it provides stable harmonic grounding.

The major ninth chord extends the major seventh with a ninth, creating a lush, sophisticated sound central to jazz and R&B. It conveys spaciousness, warmth, and harmonic richness. The F Major Ninth Chord specifically contains 5 notes: F, A, C, E, G (formula: 1-3-5-7-9). On guitar, the F barre chord is famously one of the first challenging shapes beginners encounter, but its tight voicing produces a clear, focused sound. Classical, jazz, and gospel music frequently feature F-rooted chords, and brass-heavy arrangements in concert band naturally gravitate to keys that include F as a primary chord.

Common Progressions

The F Major Ninth Chord frequently appears in these progression patterns (shown in Roman numeral notation relative to key):

• Imaj9-IVmaj9
• Imaj9-ii7

Songs Featuring the Major Ninth Chord

Well-known songs where the F Major Ninth Chord — or this chord type — plays a prominent role:

• Nights in White Satin – Moody Blues
• Clair de Lune – Debussy (adapted)
• Once in a While – jazz standard

Tuning Frequencies Across Temperaments

Frequencies shown at A=440 Hz. View full temperament data for any note.

Scales Containing the F Major Ninth Chord

These scales include the F Major Ninth Chord as a diatonic or characteristic chord: