Augmented Chords
F+,A+,Db+
The + symbol is used to indicate an augmented chord. Sometimes the abbreviation "Aug" is used.
This augmented chord shape actually has three different names. To understand why this is so, examine the formula for an augmented chord: I - III - # V. By applying this formula to their respective scales, it can be seen that F+, A+ and Db+ all contain the same notes, thus the same shape can be used for all three chords.
(Db+ can also be called C#+)
Because each shape represents three different chords, the complete range of augmented chords is covered by using the shape over four frets. At the first fret it is either F+, A+ or Db+; at the second it is F#+, Bb+ or D+; at the third it is G+, B+, or Eb+; and at the fourth it is Ab+, C+ or E+. This covers all the possible augmented chords, and when you reach the fifth fret the shape will be F+, A+ or Db+ again (as at the first fret).
The easiest way to remember the three different augmented names involved in each shape is simply to read off the notes contained when that shape is held; i.e., if the augmented shape is played at the third position, and the individual notes are named (G, B, Eb , G) this gives the three names of the augmented chord (G+, B+, and Eb+). Conversely, if you wish to play a given augmented chord (C+), all you need to do is find a C note on any of the four strings, and then play the augmented shape around it (the shape you play will also produce an Ab+ or E+). A C note can be found on the third string at the fifth fret, so the chord will be formed thus:
Rhythm Pattern
The G+ used in this example can be played at the third fret (G note located on both the first and fourth strings). Since both the Cm and Cm7 chords involve barring with the first finger, you will find it easier to change chords if the bar is held through the G+ chord. When you do this, be sure only to play the first four strings.
Do NOT play the fifth and sixth strings.
Using the first four strings only for the augmented chord results in a strong treble sound. Another way of playing it is to replace the first string note with the equivalent sixth string note:
Treble Sound
Bass Sound
