How do you harmonize the C major augmented scale?

To harmonize C major augmented, stack thirds from each scale degree to build diatonic chords. This produces triads and seventh chords that naturally fit within the key of C major augmented.

C major augmented chords

All guitar chords for the C major augmented scale

Show scale diagram ↓

Chord Voicings

Harmony

Originalii–V–ISec. Dom.

C major augmented scale diatonic chords

IC aug

IID minor

IIIE major

IVF major

VA♭ dim

VIA minor

VIIB dim

C major augmented scale seventh chords

IC major seventh flat sixth

C - E - G♯ - B

IID m7

IIIE 7

IVF maj7

VA♭ dim7

VIA mmaj7

VIIB m7♭5

scale

Fretboard diagram

C major augmented scale — chords and intervals

Harmonizing the C major augmented scale generates an unstable chord family built around augmented and altered triads that resist traditional resolution. The chords of C major augmented are C augmented, D minor, E major, F major, G# diminished, A minor, B diminished. These chords create a liquid, shifting harmonic texture. Use them for transitions and development sections where the music needs to feel like it is in constant motion without settling. Commonly used in Jazz, Modern Classical, Fusion. Notable players include Wayne Shorter, Herbie Hancock.

The C major augmented scale has the following degrees: 1 2 3 4 ♯5 6 7.

Intervals: W-W-H-3H-H-W-H.

Diatonic chords: C augmented, D minor, E major, F major, G# diminished, A minor, B diminished.

Degrees	Chord
I	C augmented
ii	D minor
iii	E major
IV	F major
V	G# diminished
vi	A minor
vii°	B diminished

Degree-by-Degree Analysis

The I chord (C augmented) is the tonic — the gravitational center of the key. The ii chord (D minor) is the minor subdominant, commonly used to approach the V chord. The iii chord (E major) functions as a substitute for the I or vi. The IV chord (F major) is the subdominant — it adds motion and moderate tension. The V chord (G# diminished) is the dominant — it creates the strongest tension that wants to resolve to the I. The vi chord (A minor) is the relative minor — it brings emotional color and depth. The vii° chord (B diminished) is the diminished — the most tense, rarely used alone, usually leading to the I.

This page focuses on the harmonic content — the chords built from each degree of the C major augmented scale. For fretboard patterns and fingering guides, see the scale page.

Use the interactive harmonizer above to explore triads, seventh chords, and chord voicings for composing with the C major augmented scale on guitar.

Related Scales

How to Use This Scale

Use over augmented and Maj7#5 chords. Creates a shimmering, unresolved quality for modern jazz and classical passages.