C Augmented Heptatonic Charango Scale
Charango scale — fretboard diagramAdvanced
C Augmented Heptatonic Scale — Notes and Intervals
The C Augmented Heptatonic scale is a seven-note expansion of the augmented scale. On Charango, it contains the notes C, D#, E, F, G, G#, B. 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: C, D#, E, F, G, G#, B
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 C 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 C Augmented Heptatonic on Charango
Begin by locating C on your instrument and play through the 7 notes of the Augmented Heptatonic scale slowly, ensuring each note rings clearly before increasing speed.
The C Augmented Heptatonic scale contains 2 sharps (D#, G#). This scale does not follow a traditional major or minor key signature, so reading from sheet music may require accidentals.
Practice Routine — Exercises for Playing
Begin by playing the C Augmented Heptatonic scale ascending and descending at 100 BPM using a metronome, one note per beat. Once comfortable, practice in thirds (C-E, D#-F) 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 C. Let the unique intervals speak for themselves without frequent chord changes. This scale is especially effective in jazz contexts.
Charango Tips
Practice the C 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 C Augmented Heptatonic scale contains 7 notes (C, D#, E, F, G, G#, B). Use the interactive fretboard diagram above to explore each shape and pattern on Charango with different tunings and fret ranges. Practice ascending and descending from the root note to learn the sound of this scale.
CAGED Positions & Patterns for C Augmented Heptatonic
The C 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 C Augmented Heptatonic Further
- Harmonize the C Augmented Heptatonic scale — triads & 7th chords
- Browse chord progressions
- C Augmented Heptatonic on Guitar
- C Augmented Heptatonic on Ukulele
- C Augmented Heptatonic on Bass
- C Augmented Heptatonic on Piano