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An augmented chord is a triad consisting of a root, a major third and an augmented fifth. It is commonly written with the abbreviation aug or the symbol +.
What is an augmented chord?
An augmented chord is built by stacking two major thirds. The raised fifth creates an unstable, open sound that naturally seeks resolution to another chord.
Augmented chords are used in classical music, jazz, pop and film music to add tension, color and harmonic movement.
How is an augmented chord used in piano playing?
Piano players often use augmented chords as passing chords or transitional chords between more stable harmonies. Their distinctive sound creates forward motion and adds harmonic interest to chord progressions.
Learning augmented chords expands a pianist’s harmonic vocabulary and provides more creative options for accompaniment and improvisation.