E Augmented Bass Arpeggio
Bass arpeggio — fretboard diagram
E Augmented Arpeggio — Notes and Intervals
Notes: E, G#, C
Intervals: 1P, 3M, 5A
Formula: 2W-2W
Number of notes: 3
Also known as: aug, +, +5, ^#5
The E Augmented arpeggio contains 3 notes (E, G#, C). Use the interactive fretboard above to explore this arpeggio on Bass with different tunings and fret ranges.
When to Use the E Augmented Arpeggio
Play the E Augmented arpeggio whenever a E 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 E Augmented arpeggio uses 3 notes (E, G#, C) 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 E Augmented Arpeggio on Bass
On bass, locate E on the E string at fret 0. This compact 3-note arpeggio (E, G#, C) can be played across two strings without shifting, making it ideal for building bass lines that clearly outline the harmony.
The E Augmented arpeggio has a symmetrical, ethereal quality built from major thirds. It fits over Eaug, E+, Emaj7#5 chords and is useful for creating a sense of upward motion and harmonic ambiguity.
Practice Routine
Start by playing the E 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
Practice the E Augmented arpeggio on bass using a raking technique across adjacent strings for a smooth, flowing sound. Then try the same shape with a two-finger alternating pluck for a more defined, punchy articulation.