A# Augmented Bass Arpeggio
Bass arpeggio — fretboard diagram
A# Augmented Arpeggio — Notes and Intervals
Notes: A#, D, E##
Intervals: 1P, 3M, 5A
Formula: 2W-2W
Number of notes: 3
Also known as: aug, +, +5, ^#5
The A# Augmented arpeggio contains 3 notes (A#, D, E##). Use the interactive fretboard diagram above to explore each arpeggio shape and pattern on Bass. Practice ascending and descending from the root note across all strings to learn the sound of this arpeggio.
When to Use the A# Augmented Arpeggio
Play the A# Augmented arpeggio whenever a A# Augmented chord appears in a progression. Unlike scales (which include passing tones), arpeggios guarantee every note you play IS a chord tone, making your solo sound harmonically precise and intentional.
Arpeggio vs. Scale
The A# Augmented arpeggio uses 3 notes (A#, D, E##) while the full scale uses 7. The arpeggio is a subset — think of it as the skeleton of the scale. Practice alternating between the arpeggio and the full scale to develop a melodic vocabulary that mixes chord tones with passing tones.
How to Play A# Augmented Arpeggio on Bass
On bass, locate A# on the A string at fret 1. This compact 3-note arpeggio (A#, D, E##) can be played across two strings without shifting, making it ideal for building bass lines that clearly outline the harmony.
The A# Augmented arpeggio has a symmetrical, ethereal quality built from major thirds. It fits over A#aug, A#+, A#maj7#5 chords and is useful for creating a sense of upward motion and harmonic ambiguity.
Practice Routine — Exercises for Playing
Play the A# Augmented arpeggio as whole notes over a backing track or drone on A#. Focus on intonation and tone quality for each of the 3 notes (A#, D, E##). After a few passes, begin improvising short melodic phrases built from these arpeggio tones, connecting them with passing notes.
Bass Tips
On bass, use the A# Augmented arpeggio as the skeleton for your bass lines. Target the root on beat 1, then use the other tones (D, E##) on weaker beats to create movement while keeping the harmonic foundation solid.