C♯ (C sharp major) is built from 3 notes: C♯, E♯, G♯.
- C♯root
- E♯major third
- G♯perfect fifth
Formula: 1, 3, 5
How to play C♯ on guitar
x 4 6 6 6 49 11 11 10 9 9Read the diagrams with the low E string on the left. × means do not play that string, ○ means play it open.
Easier way: there is no open C♯ shape, so it is usually played with one of the movable shapes above. With a capo you can use a shape you already know: capo on fret 1 and play the C shape, or capo on fret 4 and play the A shape.
How to play C♯ on piano
Play C♯, E♯, G♯ together. With your right hand, use fingers 1, 3 and 5 (thumb on C♯). Your left hand can play C♯ an octave lower for a fuller sound.
Chords in the key of C♯ major
These seven chords are built from the C♯ major scale (C♯, D♯, E♯, F♯, G♯, A♯, B♯), so they all sound at home next to C♯.
Common progressions in C♯ major
- I - V - vi - IV: C♯ - G♯ - A♯m - F♯
- I - IV - V - I: C♯ - F♯ - G♯ - C♯
- ii - V - I: D♯m - G♯ - C♯
- vi - IV - I - V: A♯m - F♯ - C♯ - G♯
The relative minor of C♯ major is A♯m. Both keys use the same notes. On the Camelot wheel, C♯ major is 3B.
Related chords
Change this chord into another key with the Chord Transposer, or look up any other chord or scale in the Chord and Scale Finder.