B Augmented Bass Arpeggio
Bass arpeggio — fretboard diagram
B Augmented Arpeggio — Notes and Intervals
Notes: B, D#, G
Intervals: 1P, 3M, 5A
Formula: 2W-2W
Number of notes: 3
Also known as: aug, +, +5, ^#5
The B Augmented arpeggio contains 3 notes (B, D#, G). Use the interactive fretboard above to explore this arpeggio on Bass with different tunings and fret ranges.
When to Use the B Augmented Arpeggio
Play the B Augmented arpeggio whenever a B Augmented chord appears in a progression. Unlike scales (which include passing tones), arpeggios guarantee every note you play IS a chord tone, making your solo sound harmonically precise and intentional.
Arpeggio vs. Scale
The B Augmented arpeggio uses 3 notes (B, D#, G) while the full scale uses 7. The arpeggio is a subset — think of it as the skeleton of the scale. Practice alternating between the arpeggio and the full scale to develop a melodic vocabulary that mixes chord tones with passing tones.
How to Play B Augmented Arpeggio on Bass
On bass, locate B on the A string at fret 2. This compact 3-note arpeggio (B, D#, G) can be played across two strings without shifting, making it ideal for building bass lines that clearly outline the harmony.
The B Augmented arpeggio has a symmetrical, ethereal quality built from major thirds. It fits over Baug, B+, Bmaj7#5 chords and is useful for creating a sense of upward motion and harmonic ambiguity.
Practice Routine
Start by playing the B Augmented arpeggio ascending and descending at 60 BPM, one note per beat, using a metronome. Once even and confident, play it in eighth notes, then triplets, keeping each note articulate. Spend at least 5 minutes daily on this before moving to musical application.
Bass Tips
On bass, use the B Augmented arpeggio as the skeleton for your bass lines. Target the root on beat 1, then use the other tones (D#, G) on weaker beats to create movement while keeping the harmonic foundation solid.