G Augmented Heptatonic Banjo (5-String) Scale
Banjo (5-String) scale — fretboard diagramAdvanced
G Augmented Heptatonic Scale — Notes and Intervals
The G Augmented Heptatonic scale is a seven-note expansion of the augmented scale. On Banjo (5-String), it contains the notes G, A#, B, C, D, D#, F#. 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: G, A#, B, C, D, D#, F#
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 G 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 G Augmented Heptatonic on Banjo (5-String)
Begin by locating G on your instrument and play through the 7 notes of the Augmented Heptatonic scale slowly, ensuring each note rings clearly before increasing speed.
The G Augmented Heptatonic 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 Heptatonic 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.
Exotic scales like the Augmented Heptatonic often work best as a melodic layer over a single root drone on G. Let the unique intervals speak for themselves without frequent chord changes. This scale is especially effective in classical contexts.
Banjo (5-String) Tips
Practice the G Augmented Heptatonic scale slowly and evenly on your instrument, focusing on tone quality for each of the 7 notes before building speed. Aim for a dramatic quality in your phrasing to match the natural character of this scale.
Related Scales
The G Augmented Heptatonic scale contains 7 notes (G, A#, B, C, D, D#, F#). Use the interactive fretboard above to explore this scale on Banjo (5-String) with different tunings and fret ranges.
CAGED Positions & Patterns for G Augmented Heptatonic
The G 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.
Explore G Augmented Heptatonic Further
- Browse chord progressions
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- G Augmented Heptatonic on Piano