How to Add Augmented Chords to Guitar Progressions

If you’ve ever wondered how to use augmented chords in your guitar progressions, you’re in the right place.

Augmented chords can add tension and color to your music, taking your guitar playing to a whole new level.

In this article, we’ll explore what augmented chords are, why you should use them, and how to seamlessly incorporate them into your guitar progressions.

What Are Augmented Chords?

To understand how to use augmented chords, it’s essential to know what they are.

An augmented chord is made up of the root note, major third, and augmented fifth.

The formula for constructing an augmented chord is:

• Root
• Major Third
• Augmented Fifth

For example, if you take a C major chord, the notes are:

• C (Root)
• E (Major Third)
• G (Perfect Fifth)

To create a C augmented chord, you would raise the G note to G#:

• C (Root)
• E (Major Third)
• G# (Augmented Fifth)

This results in a C augmented chord (C, E, G#).

The unique sound of augmented chords can provide a fresh quality and a sense of movement in your music.

Why Should You Use Augmented Chords?

So, why should you learn how to use augmented chords? Here are a few compelling reasons:

1. Enhanced Emotional Impact: Augmented chords can create tension and emotional depth, making your progressions feel more expressive.

2. Transitional Tool: They can act as a bridge in your progressions, allowing smooth transitions between different chords.

3. Unique Sound: They provide dissonance, which is often absent in standard major and minor chords, making your music stand out.

4. Versatility Across Genres: You can use augmented chords in various genres, from jazz to pop and classical to rock.

Incorporating augmented chords into your music can elevate your songwriting skills and creative expression.

How to Add Augmented Chords to Your Progressions?

Now that you understand what augmented chords are and why they’re useful, let’s dive into how to use augmented chords in your guitar progressions.

Which Chord Progressions Work Best?

1. I-IV-V (C-F-G):
   Start with a basic progression. In C major:
   – Use augmented chords for the V chord.
   – Example: C – F – G# (G augmented)

2. I-vi-IV-V (C-Am-F-G):
   In this progression, you could turn the IV chord into an augmented chord.
   – Example: C – Am – F# (F augmented) – G

3. ii-V-I (Dm-G-C):
   This jazz-standard progression can also effectively showcase augmented chords.
   – Substitute the G chord with G augmented: Dm – G# – C

4. I-V-vi-IV (C-G-Am-F):
   Here, you can replace the V chord.
   – Example: C – G# (G augmented) – Am – F

How to Use Augmented Chords Creatively?

1. Use them as Leading Chords:
   When moving from one major chord to another, consider inserting an augmented chord to create a smooth transition.
   – For instance, if moving from C to F, try C – C#aug – F.

2. Use Them for Suspense:
   Place an augmented chord before a resolution to create tension.
   – Example: Play C – B – C#aug before landing back on Dm.

3. Add Augmented Chords to a Minor Progression:
   Augmented chords can also provide uplift in minor progressions. For example, in A minor:
   – A minor – Dm – Eaug – Am.

4. Experiment with Inversions:
   Try different inversions of the augmented chord to make the sound fresher. For example, instead of playing G# immediately, you can try its first inversion (B, C, E).

What Are Some Common Augmented Chord Shapes on Guitar?

Here are some easy-to-play augmented chord shapes for guitar:

1. C Augmented (C+):
   – X-3-2-1-0-0

2. D Augmented (D+):
   – X-X-0-2-1-2

3. E Augmented (E+):
   – 0-2-2-1-1-0

4. G Augmented (G+):
   – 3-2-0-1-0-0

5. A Augmented (A+):
   – X-0-2-1-1-0

When to Avoid Using Augmented Chords?

While augmented chords are powerful, they need to be used judiciously. Here are a few circumstances where less may be more:

1. Avoid Overuse: Using them excessively may make your music sound cluttered or chaotic.

2. In Simpler Songs: If you’re playing simple pop or folk tunes, stick to conventional chords for a more harmonious sound.

3. When Maintaining a Specific Mood: If you aim for a light or uplifting feel, too many augmented chords may distort the overall emotion.

4. Long Progressions: If your progression is lengthy and complex already, consider a less complex approach.

How to Practice Augmented Chords?

1. Simple Chord Changes: Start by incorporating one or two augmented chords in your playing.

2. Play Along to Songs: Identify songs where augmented chords are used and play along to understand their use better.

3. Songwriting: Use a simple three-chord progression and try adding augmented chords to it. Write multiple versions of the same progression until you find the one that feels right.

4. Record Yourself: Listening back can help you identify how effectively you’ve incorporated augmented chords.

What’s Next After Learning About Augmented Chords?

Once you’re comfortable with how to use augmented chords, consider the following:

1. Explore Other Altered Chords: Learn about diminished chords, seventh chords, and other extensions to add even more complexity to your playing.

2. Collaborate with Other Musicians: Share your augmented chord progressions with friends and see how they react.

3. Experiment with Different Genres: Different styles can inspire new uses for augmented chords; don’t be afraid to venture outside your comfort zone.

4. Keep Writing: Turn your new knowledge into music. The best way to solidify your understanding of augmented chords is to create your own guitar progressions.

By practicing and experimenting with augmented chords, you’ll soon discover that these unique harmonic elements can transform your music in delightful ways.

In conclusion, adding augmented chords to your guitar progressions isn’t just about playing a new shape; it’s about exploring new musical landscapes.

Learning how to use augmented chords effectively will greatly enhance your musicianship and inspire greater creativity in your compositions. Happy playing!