F# Augmented Bass Arpeggio
Bass arpeggio — fretboard diagram
F# Augmented Arpeggio — Notes and Intervals
Notes: F#, A#, D
Intervals: 1P, 3M, 5A
Formula: 2W-2W
Number of notes: 3
Also known as: aug, +, +5, ^#5
The F# Augmented arpeggio contains 3 notes (F#, A#, D). Use the interactive fretboard above to explore this arpeggio on Bass with different tunings and fret ranges.
When to Use the F# Augmented Arpeggio
Play the F# Augmented arpeggio whenever a F# 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 F# Augmented arpeggio uses 3 notes (F#, A#, D) 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 F# Augmented Arpeggio on Bass
On bass, locate F# on the E string at fret 2. This compact 3-note arpeggio (F#, A#, D) can be played across two strings without shifting, making it ideal for building bass lines that clearly outline the harmony.
The F# Augmented arpeggio has a symmetrical, ethereal quality built from major thirds. It fits over F#aug, F#+, F#maj7#5 chords and is useful for creating a sense of upward motion and harmonic ambiguity.
Practice Routine
Play the F# Augmented arpeggio as whole notes over a backing track or drone on F#. Focus on intonation and tone quality for each of the 3 notes (F#, A#, D). After a few passes, begin improvising short melodic phrases built from these arpeggio tones, connecting them with passing notes.
Bass Tips
Practice the F# 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.