A Augmented Heptatonic Cavaquinho Scale
Cavaquinho scale — fretboard diagramAdvanced
A Augmented Heptatonic Scale — Notes and Intervals
The A Augmented Heptatonic scale is a seven-note expansion of the augmented scale. On Cavaquinho, it contains the notes A, C, C#, D, E, F, G#. 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, C, C#, D, E, F, G#
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 Cavaquinho
Begin by locating A on your instrument and play through the 7 notes of the Augmented Heptatonic scale slowly, ensuring each note rings clearly before increasing speed.
The A Augmented Heptatonic scale contains 2 sharps (C#, G#). 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-C#, C-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.
Cavaquinho Tips
Practice the A 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 A Augmented Heptatonic scale contains 7 notes (A, C, C#, D, E, F, G#). Use the interactive fretboard above to explore this scale on Cavaquinho with different tunings and fret ranges.
CAGED Positions & Patterns for A Augmented Heptatonic
The A 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 A Augmented Heptatonic Further
- Browse chord progressions
- A Augmented Heptatonic on Guitar
- A Augmented Heptatonic on Ukulele
- A Augmented Heptatonic on Bass
- A Augmented Heptatonic on Piano