G Augmented Piano Scale
Piano scale diagramAdvanced
G Augmented Scale — Notes and Intervals
The G Augmented scale is a symmetrical six-note scale that sounds suspended and dreamlike. On Piano, it contains the notes G, A#, B, D, D#, F#. 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: G, A#, B, D, D#, F#
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
Musical Character
Built from two interlocking augmented triads, creating a 6-note symmetric scale that can only be transposed 4 times. It creates a shimmering, unstable beauty.
Genres & Notable Artists
Genres: Jazz, Film Scores, Impressionist, Experimental
Notable players: John Coltrane, Wayne Shorter, Oliver Nelson
How to Use the G Augmented Scale
Use over augmented triads, Maj7#5 chords. Creates a high-tension, surreal quality ideal for jazz and cinematic transitions.
Origin & Background
Also called the hexatonic scale. Used by Coltrane and post-bop musicians for 'sheets of sound' approaches.
How to Play G Augmented on Piano
On piano, the G Augmented scale uses 3 black keys. Start with your thumb on G and use the black keys as landmarks for consistent finger placement. Standard major or minor fingering patterns apply.
The G Augmented scale contains 3 sharps (A#, D#, F#). 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 100 BPM and play the G Augmented 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.
Experiment with simple two-chord vamps rooted on G to let the characteristic intervals of the Augmented scale come through clearly. This scale is especially effective in jazz contexts.
Piano Tips
At the piano, try voicing the G Augmented 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 suspended quality in your phrasing to match the natural character of this scale.
Related Scales
The G Augmented scale contains 6 notes (G, A#, B, D, D#, F#). Use the interactive piano diagram above to explore this scale on Piano.