Augmented Chord

Definition

An augmented chord is a triad consisting of a root note, a major third, and an augmented fifth, creating a unique sound that is often described as bright or tense. This chord is built by raising the fifth note of a major triad by a half step, resulting in an interval that feels unresolved. Augmented chords are frequently used in music to create tension and lead into other chords, making them essential for harmonic progression.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. An augmented chord can be notated as 'Caug' or 'C+', indicating the root note followed by 'augmented'.
2. These chords create strong tension and are often used to resolve to more stable chords like major or minor.
3. Inverting an augmented chord can create different voicings while maintaining the same notes, which can enhance harmonic interest.
4. Augmented chords are commonly found in genres such as jazz and classical music, where complex harmonies are appreciated.
5. The interval between the root and the augmented fifth is an augmented sixth, which is important for understanding its resolution tendencies.

Review Questions

• How does the structure of an augmented chord differ from that of other triads?
  • An augmented chord is unique in that it includes a major third and an augmented fifth. In contrast, a major triad has a perfect fifth, while a diminished chord features a minor third and diminished fifth. The alteration of the fifth note in an augmented chord creates its distinctive sound and tension, which sets it apart from standard triads.
• Discuss the role of augmented chords in creating tension within harmonic progressions.
  • Augmented chords play a vital role in creating musical tension due to their unresolved sound. By incorporating these chords into progressions, composers can heighten emotional intensity before resolving to more stable harmonies like major or minor chords. This tension and release dynamic helps to engage listeners and maintain interest throughout the composition.
• Evaluate how augmented chords can be utilized in various musical genres to enhance emotional expression.
  • Augmented chords are versatile tools in music composition across different genres. In classical music, they can add drama and complexity to harmonic structures. In jazz, they serve as passing chords that introduce unexpected color and movement within progressions. By evaluating their application, it's clear that augmented chords contribute significantly to emotional expression, allowing composers and musicians to evoke feelings ranging from anticipation to resolution.

Related terms

Triad: A triad is a three-note chord formed by stacking two intervals of a third on top of each other.

Major Third: A major third is an interval that spans four half steps, forming the second note of a major scale to the root note.

Diminished Chord: A diminished chord is similar to an augmented chord but consists of a root, a minor third, and a diminished fifth, giving it a darker sound.