A# Augmented Heptatonic Piano Scale
Piano scale diagramAdvanced
A# Augmented Heptatonic Scale — Notes and Intervals
The A# Augmented Heptatonic scale is a seven-note expansion of the augmented scale. On Piano, it contains the notes A#, B##, D, D#, F, E##, 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: A#, B##, D, D#, F, E##, 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
Musical Character
A 7-note expansion of the augmented scale that provides maximum chromatic tension — ideal for creating high-drama minor-key resolutions.
Genres & Notable Artists
Genres: Jazz, Classical, Film Scores
Notable players: Oliver Nelson, Wayne Shorter
How to Use the A# Augmented Heptatonic Scale
Use over augmented and Maj7#5 chords in jazz. A dramatic coloring tool for resolutions.
Origin & Background
An expanded augmented scale for orchestral and jazz contexts requiring more chromatic options.
How to Play A# Augmented Heptatonic on Piano
On piano, the A# Augmented Heptatonic scale uses 4 black keys. With several black keys involved, let the thumb naturally fall on white keys where possible. Practice hands separately at first, paying attention to smooth thumb-under transitions.
The A# Augmented Heptatonic scale contains 4 sharps (A#, B##, D#, E##). This scale does not follow a traditional major or minor key signature, so reading from sheet music may require accidentals.
Practice Routine
Begin by playing the A# Augmented Heptatonic scale ascending and descending at 100 BPM using a metronome, one note per beat. Once comfortable, practice in thirds (A#-D, B##-D#) to build intervallic familiarity. Spend 5 minutes daily on this pattern before increasing tempo by 10 BPM.
Exotic scales like the Augmented Heptatonic often work best as a melodic layer over a single root drone on A#. Let the unique intervals speak for themselves without frequent chord changes. This scale is especially effective in jazz contexts.
Piano Tips
At the piano, try voicing the A# Augmented Heptatonic scale in the left hand as blocked intervals (thirds or sixths) while the right hand plays the melody. This develops your harmonic ear and comping skills simultaneously. Aim for a dramatic quality in your phrasing to match the natural character of this scale.
Related Scales
The A# Augmented Heptatonic scale contains 7 notes (A#, B##, D, D#, F, E##, A). Use the interactive piano diagram above to explore this scale on Piano.