Guitar arpeggio

E Augmented Guitar Arpeggio

E Augmented is a three-note arpeggio built from E, G#, and B#. It is also commonly called E Augmented Triad. Use it to study chord tones, interval formulas, and guitar fretboard positions.

Chord tones
E, G#, B#
Formula
1 3 #5
Semitones
0 4 8
Chord symbols
Eaug, E+
Also called
E Augmented Triad

How to read this arpeggio

The chord tones are shown as pitch classes first. In the fretboard tool, square markers represent E root notes, while circular markers represent the remaining tones in the arpeggio.

Use the interactive fretboard to locate the E root notes and connect the remaining augmented chord tones across standard tuning.

This same arpeggio shape is also commonly called E Augmented Triad.

Chord construction and defining tones

3G#
#5B#

E augmented combines 3 (G#) and #5 (B#). Stacked major thirds create the raised fifth and divide the octave symmetrically.

Harmonic use

Use this arpeggio over Eaug, 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 E Augmented arpeggio from one E root to the next in at least two fretboard positions, saying each note name and interval degree aloud.
  2. Sequence 3 (G#) and #5 (B#) in major-third cycles and notice how the same fingering relationships repeat.
  3. Build a E augmented phrase that resolves the sharp fifth upward to a chord tone in the next harmony.

Fretboard diagram

E Augmented Guitar Arpeggio fretboard diagram in standard tuning
E Augmented Guitar Arpeggio fretboard diagram in standard tuning.

Open this arpeggio in the fretboard tool

Start with E Augmented loaded, then adjust tuning, labels, colors, fret count, and orientation.

Open in interactive fretboard

Arpeggio diagrams by tuning