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
C#aug, 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

3E#
#5G##

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 C#aug, an augmented dominant sound, or a moving harmony where the raised fifth leads upward by a semitone.

Practice this arpeggio on guitar

  1. 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.
  2. Sequence 3 (E#) and #5 (G##) in major-third cycles and notice how the same fingering relationships repeat.
  3. Build a C# augmented phrase that resolves the sharp fifth upward to a chord tone in the next harmony.

Fretboard diagram

C# Augmented Guitar Arpeggio fretboard diagram in standard tuning
C# Augmented Guitar Arpeggio fretboard diagram in standard tuning.

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

Arpeggio diagrams by tuning