Guitar arpeggio
Ab Sus2 Guitar Arpeggio
Ab Sus2 is a three-note arpeggio built from Ab, Bb, and Eb. It is also commonly called Ab Suspended 2 and Ab Suspended Second. Use it to study chord tones, interval formulas, and guitar fretboard positions.
- Chord tones
- Ab, Bb, Eb
- Formula
- 1 2 5
- Semitones
- 0 2 7
- Chord symbols
- Absus2
- Also called
- Ab Suspended 2Ab Suspended Second
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 sus2 chord tones across standard tuning.
This same arpeggio shape is also commonly called Ab Suspended 2 or Ab Suspended Second.
Chord construction and defining tones
Ab sus2 combines 2 (Bb) and 5 (Eb). The second replaces the third, so the arpeggio remains suspended instead of sounding clearly major or minor.
Harmonic use
Use this arpeggio over Absus2 or as a suspended color that can resolve by moving the second to a nearby chord tone.
Practice this arpeggio on guitar
- Play the Ab Sus2 arpeggio from one Ab root to the next in at least two fretboard positions, saying each note name and interval degree aloud.
- Alternate 2 (Bb) and 5 (Eb) against the root and listen for the open tension created by the second.
- Play a phrase over Absus2 that emphasizes the second, then resolve it to a major or minor third supplied by the harmony.
Fretboard diagram
Open this arpeggio in the fretboard tool
Start with Ab Sus2 loaded, then adjust tuning, labels, colors, fret count, and orientation.
Open in interactive fretboard