A Augmented Banjo (5-String) Scale
Banjo (5-String) scale — fretboard diagram
A Augmented Scale — Notes and Intervals
The A Augmented scale is a symmetrical six-note scale that sounds suspended and dreamlike. On Banjo (5-String), it contains the notes A, C, C#, E, F, G#. Built from interlocking augmented triads, it creates a sense of high harmonic tension and is often used in jazz and film music to depict surreal states of mind. Commonly used in Jazz, Film Scores, Impressionist, Experimental. Notable players include John Coltrane, Wayne Shorter, Oliver Nelson. Use over augmented triads, Maj7#5 chords. Creates a high-tension, surreal quality ideal for jazz and cinematic transitions.
Notes: A, C, C#, E, F, G#
Intervals: 1P, 2A, 3M, 5P, 5A, 7M
Degrees: 1 #2 3 4 #5 6
Formula: WH-H-WH-H-WH-H
Number of notes: 6
How to Play A Augmented on Banjo (5-String)
Begin by locating A on your instrument and play through the 6 notes of the Augmented scale slowly, ensuring each note rings clearly before increasing speed.
The A Augmented scale contains 2 sharps (C#, G#). This scale does not follow a traditional major or minor key signature, so reading from sheet music may require accidentals.
Practice Routine
Begin by playing the A Augmented scale ascending and descending at 80 BPM using a metronome, one note per beat. Once comfortable, practice in thirds (A-C#, C-E) to build intervallic familiarity. Spend 5 minutes daily on this pattern before increasing tempo by 10 BPM.
Experiment with simple two-chord vamps rooted on A to let the characteristic intervals of the Augmented scale come through clearly.
Banjo (5-String) Tips
Practice the A Augmented scale slowly and evenly on your instrument, focusing on tone quality for each of the 6 notes before building speed.
The A Augmented scale contains 6 notes (A, C, C#, E, F, G#). Use the interactive fretboard above to explore this scale on Banjo (5-String) with different tunings and fret ranges.
CAGED Positions & Patterns for A Augmented
The A Augmented scale can be played in 5 CAGED positions across the fretboard, each based on an open chord shape (C, A, G, E, D). As a 6-note pentatonic scale, 2-notes-per-string patterns are the most ergonomic way to traverse the fretboard. Use the pattern selector above to isolate each position.
Explore A Augmented Further
- Browse chord progressions
- A Augmented on Guitar
- A Augmented on Ukulele
- A Augmented on Bass
- A Augmented on Piano