E 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
E 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

1Eroot
#2Gaug 2nd
3G#major 3rd
5Bperfect 5th
#5B#aug 5th
7D#major 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
E
WH
G
H
G#
WH
B
H
B#
WH
D#

Tensions & resolutions

Stable degrees

IEpoint of resttonic
VBsupports the tonic sonorityfifth

Typical resolutions & tensions

VIID#D#
IEE
In typical voice leading, the leading tone rises by semitone to tonic.

This scale on guitar 🎸

See how E 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#mDbBbmAbFmEbCmBbGmFDmEmajor
Relative key
Dominant
Subdominant
Key signature
4 sharps (F#, C#, G#, D#)

Connections

Practice

Keyboard Trainer

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

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Frequently Asked Questions