In this lesson we will look at a melodic pattern derived from the (classical) Augmented Scale (not to be confused with the whole tone scale). This scale, which we studied in Lesson 7 , Lesson 56 and Lesson 70, is comprised of the following notes: 1, #9, 3, 5, b13, and maj 7. In the key of C this is: C, D#, E, G, Ab, B, C. This scale is unique in that it works over major, minor and dominant 7th chords.
The scale, based in C works over C major 7 (which results in the colorfull #9 and b13). The same scale in C will also work over the relative A minor 7 (which results in a rootless scale with a natural 9, a minor 3, a #11, a 5th and both a b7 and major 7). Lastly this same scale in C will work over the both dominant 7th chord G7 and the dominant 7th chord D7 (This is the use of the scale that I prefer and its use was covered in Lesson 7).
Since this scale is contructed of two augmented triads a half step apar,t it is symetrical and therefore one group of 6 notes (one scale) creates three identical structures a major 3rd apart (3 scales come from one set of notes, similar to diminished or whole tone scales). There are ostensibly only 4 distinct groups of six notes (or scales) to cover all 12 keys, although I like to think of each scale independantly in all 12 keys to insure that your analysis is specific to the root of the moment.
You can sing while visualizing the fingerings/numbers or play along with the midi mp3s below: Each track starts on Concert C and continues around the circle of 4ths.
Also, try playing the melody slowly, while thinking of the numbers relative to the root, for both the major and minor uses in each key. This will slow you way down but give you a nice understanding of each note in relation to the root. Try to use the metronome while doing this, even if you must go very slow, in order to keep a rhythmic flow during the numeric analysis.
~ Enjoy!
Lesson 96: Augmented Study- PDF
Melody only 60 bpm:
Melody only 120 bpm:
With Bass/roots Major 120 bpm:
With Bass/roots Major 60 bpm:
The Relative minor version of the study will start with Concert A minor and continue around the circle of 4ths.
With Bass/roots Minor 60 bpm:
With Bass/roots Minor 120 bpm:
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