C# Augmented Cavaquinho Scale

Cavaquinho scale — fretboard diagram

C# augmented scale — 4-string guitar fretboard diagramInteractive fretboard diagram showing the C# augmented scale on 4-string guitar with 17 frets. Notes: E, F, G#, A, C, C#.EFG#ACC#EFCC#EFG#ACC#EG#ACC#EFG#ACEFG#ACC#EF1357911121315

C# Augmented Scale — Notes and Intervals

The C# Augmented scale is a symmetrical six-note scale that sounds suspended and dreamlike. On Cavaquinho, it contains the notes C#, E, F, G#, A, C. Built from interlocking augmented triads, it creates a sense of high harmonic tension and is often used in jazz and film music to depict surreal states of mind. Commonly used in Jazz, Film Scores, Impressionist, Experimental. Notable players include John Coltrane, Wayne Shorter, Oliver Nelson. Use over augmented triads, Maj7#5 chords. Creates a high-tension, surreal quality ideal for jazz and cinematic transitions.

Notes: C#, E, F, G#, A, C

Intervals: 1P, 2A, 3M, 5P, 5A, 7M

Degrees: 1 #2 3 4 #5 6

Formula: WH-H-WH-H-WH-H

Number of notes: 6

How to Play C# Augmented on Cavaquinho

Begin by locating C# on your instrument and play through the 6 notes of the Augmented scale slowly, ensuring each note rings clearly before increasing speed.

The C# Augmented scale contains 2 sharps (C#, G#). This scale does not follow a traditional major or minor key signature, so reading from sheet music may require accidentals.

Practice Routine

Practice the C# Augmented 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 6 notes of the scale.

Experiment with simple two-chord vamps rooted on C# to let the characteristic intervals of the Augmented scale come through clearly.

Cavaquinho Tips

Practice the C# Augmented scale slowly and evenly on your instrument, focusing on tone quality for each of the 6 notes before building speed.

The C# Augmented scale contains 6 notes (C#, E, F, G#, A, C). Use the interactive fretboard above to explore this scale on Cavaquinho with different tunings and fret ranges.

CAGED Positions & Patterns for C# Augmented

The C# Augmented 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 6-note pentatonic scale, 2-notes-per-string patterns are the most ergonomic way to traverse the fretboard. Use the pattern selector above to isolate each position.

Explore C# Augmented Further

Explore C# Augmented in Other Tunings

← Back to all Cavaquinho scales