Bb Augmented scale

A six-note symmetric scale alternating minor 3rds and semitones; it outlines an augmented triad.

Octaves

Musical context

How the scale relates to the chord, mode, key and progression.

Theory

General info

Name
Bb Augmented scale
Family
Symmetric scales
Note count
6
Step formula
W+H – H – W+H – H – W+H – H
Numeric formula
0-3-1-3-1-3-1

Notes & degrees

1Bbroot
#2C#aug 2nd
3Dmajor 3rd
5Fperfect 5th
#5F#aug 5th
7Amajor 7th

Construction

Overview
A six-note symmetric scale alternating minor 3rds and semitones; it outlines an augmented triad.
Application in music
Symmetric: the pattern repeats every major third. Sits over augmented triads.
Interval formula
Bb
WH
C#
H
D
WH
F
H
F#
WH
A

Tensions & resolutions

Stable degrees

IBbpoint of resttonic
VFsupports the tonic sonorityfifth

Typical resolutions & tensions

VIIAA
IBbBb
In typical voice leading, the leading tone rises by semitone to tonic.

This scale on guitar 🎸

See how Bb Augmented scale looks on guitar.

Explore

Circle of fifths

The major key on the same tonic and its neighbouring keys on the circle of fifths.

CAmGEmDBmAF#mEC#mBG#mF#D#mDbBbmAbFmEbCmBbGmFDmBbmajor
Relative key
Dominant
Subdominant
Key signature
2 flats (Bb, Eb)

Connections

Practice

Keyboard Trainer

Reinforce it in practice — play and name notes on the interactive keyboard.

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Frequently Asked Questions