Guitar arpeggio
Ab Augmented Guitar Arpeggio
Ab Augmented is a three-note arpeggio built from Ab, C, and E. It is also commonly called Ab Augmented Triad. Use it to study chord tones, interval formulas, and guitar fretboard positions.
- Chord tones
- Ab, C, E
- Formula
- 1 3 #5
- Semitones
- 0 4 8
- Chord symbols
- Abaug, Ab+
- Also called
- Ab Augmented Triad
How to read this arpeggio
The chord tones are shown as pitch classes first. In the fretboard tool, square markers represent Ab root notes, while circular markers represent the remaining tones in the arpeggio.
Use the interactive fretboard to locate the Ab root notes and connect the remaining augmented chord tones across standard tuning.
This same arpeggio shape is also commonly called Ab Augmented Triad.
Chord construction and defining tones
Ab augmented combines 3 (C) and #5 (E). Stacked major thirds create the raised fifth and divide the octave symmetrically.
Harmonic use
Use this arpeggio over Abaug, an augmented dominant sound, or a moving harmony where the raised fifth leads upward by a semitone.
Practice this arpeggio on guitar
- Play the Ab Augmented arpeggio from one Ab root to the next in at least two fretboard positions, saying each note name and interval degree aloud.
- Sequence 3 (C) and #5 (E) in major-third cycles and notice how the same fingering relationships repeat.
- Build a Ab augmented phrase that resolves the sharp fifth upward to a chord tone in the next harmony.
Fretboard diagram
Open this arpeggio in the fretboard tool
Start with Ab Augmented loaded, then adjust tuning, labels, colors, fret count, and orientation.
Open in interactive fretboard