C 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
C 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

1Croot
#2D#aug 2nd
3Emajor 3rd
5Gperfect 5th
#5G#aug 5th
7Bmajor 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
C
WH
D#
H
E
WH
G
H
G#
WH
B

Tensions & resolutions

Stable degrees

ICpoint of resttonic
VGsupports the tonic sonorityfifth

Typical resolutions & tensions

VIIBB
ICC
In typical voice leading, the leading tone rises by semitone to tonic.

This scale on guitar 🎸

See how C 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#mDbBbmAbFmEbCmBbGmFDmCNonemajor
Relative key
Dominant
Subdominant
Key signature
None

Connections

Practice

Keyboard Trainer

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

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Frequently Asked Questions