Guitar arpeggio
A Sus2 Guitar Arpeggio
A Sus2 is a three-note arpeggio built from A, B, and E. It is also commonly called A Suspended 2 and A Suspended Second. Use it to study chord tones, interval formulas, and guitar fretboard positions.
- Chord tones
- A, B, E
- Formula
- 1 2 5
- Semitones
- 0 2 7
- Chord symbols
- Asus2
- Also called
- A Suspended 2A Suspended Second
How to read this arpeggio
The chord tones are shown as pitch classes first. In the fretboard tool, square markers represent A root notes, while circular markers represent the remaining tones in the arpeggio.
Use the interactive fretboard to locate the A root notes and connect the remaining sus2 chord tones across standard tuning.
This same arpeggio shape is also commonly called A Suspended 2 or A Suspended Second.
Chord construction and defining tones
A sus2 combines 2 (B) and 5 (E). The second replaces the third, so the arpeggio remains suspended instead of sounding clearly major or minor.
Harmonic use
Use this arpeggio over Asus2 or as a suspended color that can resolve by moving the second to a nearby chord tone.
Practice this arpeggio on guitar
- Play the A Sus2 arpeggio from one A root to the next in at least two fretboard positions, saying each note name and interval degree aloud.
- Alternate 2 (B) and 5 (E) against the root and listen for the open tension created by the second.
- Play a phrase over Asus2 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 A Sus2 loaded, then adjust tuning, labels, colors, fret count, and orientation.
Open in interactive fretboard