Guitar arpeggio
C# Sus4 Guitar Arpeggio
C# Sus4 is a three-note arpeggio built from C#, F#, and G#. It is also commonly called C# Suspended 4 and C# Suspended Fourth. Use it to study chord tones, interval formulas, and guitar fretboard positions.
- Chord tones
- C#, F#, G#
- Formula
- 1 4 5
- Semitones
- 0 5 7
- Chord symbols
- C#sus4
- Also called
- C# Suspended 4C# Suspended Fourth
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 sus4 chord tones across standard tuning.
This same arpeggio shape is also commonly called C# Suspended 4 or C# Suspended Fourth.
Chord construction and defining tones
C# sus4 combines 4 (F#) and 5 (G#). The fourth replaces the third and creates a suspended sound with a close move available to the major third.
Harmonic use
Use this arpeggio over C#sus4 or to create a suspension that resolves when the fourth falls to the third.
Practice this arpeggio on guitar
- Play the C# Sus4 arpeggio from one C# root to the next in at least two fretboard positions, saying each note name and interval degree aloud.
- Play 4 (F#) and 5 (G#) in small groups and hear the tension between the fourth and fifth.
- Outline C#sus4, then resolve the fourth down by one fret when the underlying chord changes to major.
Fretboard diagram
Open this arpeggio in the fretboard tool
Start with C# Sus4 loaded, then adjust tuning, labels, colors, fret count, and orientation.
Open in interactive fretboard