G# Augmented Seventh Bass Arpeggio
Bass arpeggio — fretboard diagram
G# Augmented Seventh Arpeggio — Notes and Intervals
Notes: G#, C, E, G
Intervals: 1P, 3M, 5A, 7M
Formula: 2W-2W-WH
Number of notes: 4
Also known as: maj7#5, maj7+5, +maj7, ^7#5
The G# Augmented Seventh arpeggio contains 4 notes (G#, C, E, G). 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 G# Augmented Seventh Arpeggio
Play the G# Augmented Seventh arpeggio whenever a G# Augmented Seventh 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 G# Augmented Seventh arpeggio uses 4 notes (G#, C, E, G) 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 G# Augmented Seventh Arpeggio on Bass
On bass, locate G# on the E string at fret 4. Span the 4 notes (G#, C, E, G) across two to three strings using one finger per fret. Focus on even tone production between plucked strings and smooth position shifts.
The G# Augmented Seventh arpeggio has a symmetrical, ethereal quality built from major thirds. It fits over G#aug, G#+, G#maj7#5 chords and is useful for creating a sense of upward motion and harmonic ambiguity.
Practice Routine — Exercises for Playing
Start by playing the G# Augmented Seventh arpeggio ascending and descending at 60 BPM, one note per beat, using a metronome. Once even and confident, play it in eighth notes, then triplets, keeping each note articulate. Spend at least 5 minutes daily on this before moving to musical application.
Bass Tips
Practice the G# Augmented Seventh arpeggio on bass using a raking technique across adjacent strings for a smooth, flowing sound. Then try the same shape with a two-finger alternating pluck for a more defined, punchy articulation.