F Augmented Heptatonic Cavaquinho Scale
Cavaquinho scale — fretboard diagramAdvanced
F Augmented Heptatonic Scale — Notes and Intervals
The F Augmented Heptatonic scale is a seven-note expansion of the augmented scale. On Cavaquinho, it contains the notes F, G#, A, Bb, C, C#, E. 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: F, G#, A, Bb, C, C#, E
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 F 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 F Augmented Heptatonic on Cavaquinho
Begin by locating F on your instrument and play through the 7 notes of the Augmented Heptatonic scale slowly, ensuring each note rings clearly before increasing speed.
The F Augmented Heptatonic scale contains both sharps and flats (2 sharps, 1 flat), which is common in altered and exotic scales. 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 F 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 F. Let the unique intervals speak for themselves without frequent chord changes. This scale is especially effective in classical contexts.
Cavaquinho Tips
Practice the F 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 F Augmented Heptatonic scale contains 7 notes (F, G#, A, Bb, C, C#, E). Use the interactive fretboard above to explore this scale on Cavaquinho with different tunings and fret ranges.
CAGED Positions & Patterns for F Augmented Heptatonic
The F 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 F Augmented Heptatonic Further
- Browse chord progressions
- F Augmented Heptatonic on Guitar
- F Augmented Heptatonic on Ukulele
- F Augmented Heptatonic on Bass
- F Augmented Heptatonic on Piano