D# AUGMENTED - GUITAR

Bass position 1

D# Augmented chord diagram for Guitar - Bass position 1

Bass position 11

D# Augmented chord diagram for Guitar - Bass position 11

Chord composition

I III ♯V
Root Major third Augmented fifth
D# G B

ALL ABOUT THE D# AUGMENTED CHORD

Chord Composition

The D# Augmented chord is composed of 3 notes :

  • D# (Root)
  • G (Major third)
  • B (Augmented fifth)

These notes form an augmented triad, offering an unstable and mysterious harmonic color.

How to play D# Augmented on guitar

The D# Augmented augmented chord is characterized by its augmented fifth, creating a tense and unstable sonority.

  • Symmetrical positions: the augmented chord repeats every 4 semitones, offering several identical positions
  • Ascending tension: the augmented fifth creates a sensation of elevation and expansion
  • Modern usage: highly prized in jazz, blues and contemporary music for its unique color

Compositionally, the augmented chord is formed of a root, a major third and an augmented fifth (8 semitones from the root).

Harmonic characteristics

The augmented chord has unique properties:

  • Total symmetry: divided into equal major thirds, creating tonal ambiguity
  • Versatility: can resolve to several different chords
  • Exotic color: evokes a suspended and mysterious atmosphere

Common uses of D# Augmented

The D# Augmented augmented chord is used in specific contexts:

  • Dominant substitution: replaces V for a more colorful resolution to I
  • Passing chord: between I and vi, or between bVII and I
  • Jazz color: enriches turnarounds and cadences

Musical styles

Jazz: used in sophisticated progressions and reharmonizations.

Blues: adds tension in turnarounds.

Modern pop: creates suspended and intriguing moments.