D add9 add11 Chord

For a change, this week's Guitar Chord Of The Week is an open-position chord... sort of. It isn't played in open position (i.e. the first 3 frets), but because it contains open strings, the D add9 add11 chord almost qualifies.

This is a beautiful but ambiguous-sounding chord that has inspired many songs.

D add9 add11 Chord

This is actually a tricky chord to put a name to. We'll settle for calling it a D add9 add11 here, but it almost certainly has other names. It could be considered to be a D major 11th, but because it doesn't contain the major 7th this would be misleading.

See this article on guitar chord theory for more information on guitar chord names.

Despite its long-winded name, the Dadd9 add11 chord is very easy to play. If you've tried it out, then you'll know that it is simply a C major open-position chord that has been moved up two frets. However, instead of adding a barre to make a D major chord, the open strings are allowed to ring.

The open G string provides the add11 note, the open E string provides the add9.

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Using The D add9 add11 Chord

This chord is often used either after (or before) the C major chord. Sliding the notes of the C chord two frets up (or down) is a very natural action.

Try playing the chord progression below:

Practice moving the fretted notes to and from the C major chord, and invent your own progressions using these and other chords.

The one problem with this chord is that its use has become a little hackneyed. You should try to use it in original ways if possible.

Try using the 'sliding two frets up' technique with other open position chord shapes, such as the Am7 and Em. These cool-sounding changes may inspire you to write some great songs or melodies.

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