When you play the piano, you encounter many different types of chords. Each chord has its own unique sound and character. One interesting type of chord is the augmented chord. In this article, we will explore what an augmented chord is, how it is constructed, its sound and characteristics, and how to use it in your music. By the end, you will have a better understanding of augmented chords and how to play them on the piano.
Understanding Chords
Before we dive into augmented chords, let’s first understand what a chord is. A chord is a combination of three or more notes played together. Chords create harmony in music. They can evoke different emotions and set the mood for a piece.
Types of Chords
There are several types of chords, but the most common ones are:
Major Chords: These chords sound happy and bright. They are made up of a root note, a major third, and a perfect fifth.
Minor Chords: These chords have a sadder or darker sound. They consist of a root note, a minor third, and a perfect fifth.
Diminished Chords: These chords sound tense and unstable. They are made up of a root note, a minor third, and a diminished fifth.
Augmented Chords: This is the chord we will focus on in this article.
What Is an Augmented Chord?
An augmented chord is a type of chord that has a unique sound. It is built by stacking two major thirds on top of each other. This gives the augmented chord its distinctive sound, which is often described as bright, tense, or mysterious.
Construction of an Augmented Chord
To understand how to construct an augmented chord, let’s break it down step by step.
Choose a Root Note: The root note is the starting point of the chord. For example, let’s choose C as our root note.
Add a Major Third: A major third is four half steps above the root note. From C, if you count four half steps up, you land on E. So, E is the first note in the C augmented chord.
Add a Raised Fifth: The fifth of a chord is usually seven half steps above the root note. In the case of C, the perfect fifth is G. However, in an augmented chord, we raise this fifth by one half step. So instead of G, we play G♯ (G sharp).
Putting it all together, a C augmented chord consists of the notes C, E, and G♯.
Formula for Augmented Chords
The formula for building an augmented chord can be summarized as follows:
Root Note: The starting note.
Major Third: Four half steps above the root.
Augmented Fifth: Eight half steps above the root.
This formula applies to any root note. For example, if you wanted to build an augmented chord on G, you would use the notes G, B, and D♯.
Examples of Augmented Chords
Let’s look at some examples of augmented chords using different root notes:
C Augmented (Caug): C, E, G♯
G Augmented (Gaug): G, B, D♯
D Augmented (Daug): D, F♯, A♯
A Augmented (Aaug): A, C♯, E♯
Each of these chords has a unique sound, but they all share the same characteristic of being built from two major thirds.
The Sound of Augmented Chords
The sound of augmented chords is often described as bright, tense, or unresolved. This is because the augmented fifth creates a sense of instability. Unlike major and minor chords, which feel complete, augmented chords leave the listener wanting more. This quality makes them useful in various musical contexts.
Emotional Impact
Augmented chords can evoke different emotions. They are often used to create tension or suspense in music. For example, you might hear an augmented chord before a resolution to a more stable chord. This creates a feeling of anticipation.
Usage in Music
Augmented chords are not as common as major and minor chords, but they play a significant role in many musical genres. They are often used in classical, jazz, and popular music. Here are a few ways augmented chords are used:
Transitioning Between Chords: Augmented chords can serve as a bridge between two other chords. For example, if you are moving from a C major chord to a D minor chord, you could use a C augmented chord to create a smooth transition.
Creating Tension: Augmented chords can build tension in a piece of music. For instance, a composer might use an augmented chord just before a big moment in a song to heighten the emotional impact.
Adding Color: In jazz and contemporary music, augmented chords are often used to add color and complexity to a chord progression. They can replace a standard chord to create a more interesting sound.
How to Play Augmented Chords on the Piano
Playing augmented chords on the piano is straightforward once you understand their structure. Here’s how to play augmented chords step by step:
1. Identify the Root Note
First, decide which augmented chord you want to play. For example, let’s say you want to play C augmented (Caug).
2. Find the Notes
Locate the notes of the chord:
- C (root note)
- E (major third)
- G♯ (augmented fifth)
3. Position Your Fingers
Use the following fingerings for the C augmented chord:
- Use your thumb (1) for C.
- Use your middle finger (3) for E.
- Use your pinky (5) for G♯.
4. Play the Chord
Press all three keys simultaneously. Make sure to play them evenly so that the chord sounds full and balanced.
5. Practice Other Augmented Chords
Once you are comfortable playing C augmented, try playing other augmented chords using the same method. Practice G augmented (G, B, D♯) and D augmented (D, F♯, A♯) to become familiar with their shapes.
Augmented Chords in Chord Progressions
Augmented chords can be incorporated into various chord progressions. Here are a few examples of how to use them:
1. C Major to C Augmented
A simple progression could be C Major (C, E, G) to C Augmented (C, E, G♯). This creates a subtle shift in sound while maintaining the same root note.
2. D Minor to C Augmented
Another progression could be D Minor (D, F, A) to C Augmented (C, E, G♯). This transition creates a sense of movement and tension.
3. G Major to G Augmented
You can also move from G Major (G, B, D) to G Augmented (G, B, D♯). This adds a bright sound before resolving back to a stable chord.
Tips for Using Augmented Chords
Here are some tips for effectively using augmented chords in your music:
1. Experiment with Different Progressions
Try incorporating augmented chords into your chord progressions. Experiment with different sequences to see how they change the mood of your music.
2. Listen to Music That Uses Augmented Chords
Listen to songs and pieces that feature augmented chords. Pay attention to how they are used and the emotions they evoke. This can inspire your own compositions.
3. Use Augmented Chords Sparingly
While augmented chords are unique and interesting, using them too often can make your music feel disjointed. Use them strategically to create tension or interest.
4. Practice Playing Augmented Chords in Different Keys
Once you feel comfortable with augmented chords in C, G, and D, try playing them in other keys. This will help you become more versatile as a pianist.
Conclusion
Augmented chords are an intriguing and versatile element of music. They are built from two major thirds and have a bright, tense sound. Understanding how to construct and use augmented chords can enhance your piano playing and composition skills.
As you explore augmented chords, remember to experiment and have fun. These chords can add depth and character to your music, making it more expressive and engaging. So, next time you sit at the piano, try incorporating augmented chords into your playing.
