Augmented Scale

The augmented scale, also known as the symmetric scale, is a six-note scale that alternates between minor thirds (m3) and half steps (H). It has a unique, symmetrical structure that creates a sense of ambiguity and tension.

Structure of the Augmented Scale

The augmented scale alternates between minor thirds (m3) and half steps (H):


m3 - H - m3 - H - m3 - H

Example: C Augmented Scale

The C augmented scale consists of the following notes:


C - D♯ - E - G - G♯ - B - C

Sound and Character

The augmented scale has a unique, ambiguous sound due to its symmetrical structure. It is often used to create a sense of tension and instability, making it ideal for use in transitional passages and improvisation.

Applications of the Augmented Scale

The augmented scale is used in various musical contexts, including:

  • Melody: Creating ambiguous and tense melodies.
  • Harmony: Adding tension and instability to chord progressions.
  • Improvisation: Soloing with a unique, symmetrical sound.

Chords Derived from the Augmented Scale

The augmented scale can be used to derive the following chords:

  • Augmented chords (e.g., C+)
  • Augmented seventh chords (e.g., C7♯5)

Songs That Use the Augmented Scale

Here are some songs that use the augmented scale:

  • "Blue Monk" by Thelonious Monk
  • "Giant Steps" by John Coltrane
  • "Mars" from The Planets by Gustav Holst
  • "Prelude to the Afternoon of a Faun" by Claude Debussy
  • "The Twilight Zone Theme" by Marius Constant
  • "You Are the Sunshine of My Life" by Stevie Wonder

Practice Exercises

Here are some practice exercises to help you get familiar with the augmented scale:

  1. Play the C augmented scale on your instrument, ascending and descending.
  2. Write out the notes of the augmented scale in different keys and play them on your instrument.
  3. Practice improvising using the augmented scale to create ambiguous and tense sounds.
  4. Compose a short melody using the augmented scale and play it on your instrument.
  5. Analyze a piece of music that uses the augmented scale and identify the scale's role in the composition.
  6. Practice playing augmented chords derived from the augmented scale in different keys.
  7. Improvise a solo using the augmented scale over a backing track in a jazz or classical style.
  8. Transcribe a solo or melody that uses the augmented scale and play it on your instrument.
  9. Create a chord progression using augmented chords and play it on your instrument.
  10. Experiment with combining the augmented scale with other scales in your improvisation.

 

 

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