E Augmented Heptatonic Bass Scale
Bass scale — fretboard diagram
E Augmented Heptatonic Scale — Notes and Intervals
The E Augmented Heptatonic scale is a seven-note expansion of the augmented scale. On Bass, it contains the notes E, G, G#, A, B, C, D#. 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: E, G, G#, A, B, C, D#
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 E Augmented Heptatonic on Bass
On bass, locate E on the E string at fret 0. 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 E Augmented Heptatonic scale contains 2 sharps (G#, D#). This scale does not follow a traditional major or minor key signature, so reading from sheet music may require accidentals.
Practice Routine
Practice the E Augmented Heptatonic scale by playing it ascending with one rhythmic feel (straight eighth notes) and descending with another (swing or triplets) at 80 BPM. This dual approach trains both technical accuracy and rhythmic versatility with the 7 notes of the scale.
Exotic scales like the Augmented Heptatonic often work best as a melodic layer over a single root drone on E. Let the unique intervals speak for themselves without frequent chord changes.
Bass Tips
On bass, use the E Augmented Heptatonic scale to build walking bass lines by targeting chord tones on strong beats and using scale tones as approach notes. This is the foundation of functional bass playing.
The E Augmented Heptatonic scale contains 7 notes (E, G, G#, A, B, C, D#). Use the interactive fretboard above to explore this scale on Bass with different tunings and fret ranges.
CAGED Positions & Patterns for E Augmented Heptatonic
The E 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.