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