C# Augmented Heptatonic Guitar Scale
Guitar scale in Open C tuning — fretboard diagram
C# Augmented Heptatonic in Open C — Notes and Intervals
The C# Augmented Heptatonic scale is a seven-note expansion of the augmented scale. On Guitar, it contains the notes C#, E, F, F#, G#, A, C. 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#, E, F, F#, G#, A, C
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
Tuning: Open C (C-G-C-G-C-E)
About Open C Tuning
Open C tuning (C-G-C-G-C-E) produces a C major chord when strummed open, with an enormous bass depth from the low C string (two whole steps below standard E). The tuning spans a vast tonal range that gives compositions an almost orchestral scope, making it a favorite for both delicate fingerstyle and crushing heavy music.
John Butler's 'Ocean' — one of the most famous modern fingerstyle compositions — is performed in Open C, showcasing the tuning's incredible dynamic range from thundering bass to shimmering harmonics. Devin Townsend uses Open C extensively across his catalog for its massive, wall-of-sound potential. Jimmy Page used it on Led Zeppelin's 'Friends' from Led Zeppelin III. Soundgarden also explored Open C. The three C strings and two G strings create powerful octave resonances that make even simple chord shapes sound huge.
Notable artists: John Butler, Devin Townsend, Jimmy Page (Led Zeppelin), Soundgarden, William Ackerman
Best for: Cinematic fingerstyle compositions, progressive metal walls of sound, post-rock textures, and any music that needs enormous tonal range from deep bass to bright treble
Musical Character
A 7-note expansion of the augmented scale that provides maximum chromatic tension — ideal for creating high-drama minor-key resolutions.
Explore This Scale in Other Tunings
- C# Augmented Heptatonic in Standard Tuning
- C# Augmented Heptatonic in Drop D
- C# Augmented Heptatonic in DADGAD
- C# Augmented Heptatonic in Open G
- C# Augmented Heptatonic in Baritone (B Standard)
- C# Augmented Heptatonic in 7-string
- C# Augmented Heptatonic in 8-string
- C# Augmented Heptatonic in Drop C
- C# Augmented Heptatonic in Drop B
- C# Augmented Heptatonic in Open D
- C# Augmented Heptatonic in Half Step Down
- C# Augmented Heptatonic in Open E
- C# Augmented Heptatonic in Open A
- C# Augmented Heptatonic in Double Drop D