B Augmented Heptatonic Bass Scale
Bass scale — fretboard diagram
B Augmented Heptatonic Scale — Notes and Intervals
The B Augmented Heptatonic scale is a seven-note expansion of the augmented scale. On Bass, it contains the notes B, D, D#, E, F#, G, A#. It provides maximum chromatic tension and is an ideal tool for creating high-drama resolutions in minor-key compositions. Commonly used in Jazz, Classical, Film Scores. Notable players include Oliver Nelson, Wayne Shorter. Use over augmented and Maj7#5 chords in jazz. A dramatic coloring tool for resolutions.
Notes: B, D, D#, E, F#, G, A#
Intervals: 1P, 2A, 3M, 4P, 5P, 5A, 7M
Degrees: 1 #2 3 4 5 #6 7
Formula: WH-H-H-W-H-WH-H
Number of notes: 7
How to Play B Augmented Heptatonic on Bass
On bass, locate B on the A string at fret 2. Use a one-finger-per-fret approach starting from the root and span two to three strings. Keep your fretting hand relaxed and practice shifting between positions cleanly.
The B Augmented Heptatonic scale contains 3 sharps (D#, F#, A#). This scale does not follow a traditional major or minor key signature, so reading from sheet music may require accidentals.
Practice Routine
Set a metronome to 80 BPM and play the B Augmented Heptatonic scale in groups of four notes, shifting the starting note each repetition. This builds muscle memory across the entire scale range. After a week, try improvising short 4-bar phrases using only these notes.
Exotic scales like the Augmented Heptatonic often work best as a melodic layer over a single root drone on B. Let the unique intervals speak for themselves without frequent chord changes.
Bass Tips
Practice the B Augmented Heptatonic scale on bass using only your index and ring fingers for a two-finger-per-string approach, then switch to one-finger-per-fret. Both techniques are essential for different musical situations.
The B Augmented Heptatonic scale contains 7 notes (B, D, D#, E, F#, G, A#). Use the interactive fretboard above to explore this scale on Bass with different tunings and fret ranges.
CAGED Positions & Patterns for B Augmented Heptatonic
The B Augmented Heptatonic 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 7-note scale, it also lends itself to 3-notes-per-string (3NPS) patterns that facilitate legato playing and diagonal shifting. Use the pattern selector above to isolate each position.