C Augmented Guitar Chord

An augmented triad that creates tension and exotic color in harmony

Difficulty:
xx2110

What is C Augmented?

The C Augmented guitar chord is formed by the notes C – E – G# and is played using the fingering xx2110. It’s a aug chord commonly used in C-Caug-F.

C Augmented Chord Diagram

How to Play C Augmented

  1. Place fingertips close to the fret wire using the diagram xx2110.
  2. Arch fingers so they don’t touch adjacent strings; keep thumb behind the neck.
  3. Pick each string to check for buzz or mute; adjust pressure and curl.
  4. Strum slow down-strums; add down–down–up–up–down–up when clean.

Pro Tip: Practice chord changes with a metronome at 70–90 BPM for one-minute rounds.

C Augmented Variations

C+

xx2110

Alternative symbol for augmented

Caug (high)

x32110

Higher voicing with bass note

Popular Songs Using C Augmented

Famous Examples:

  • Oh! Darling
  • Michelle

More Hits:

  • Blue Moon

Common Chord Progressions with C Augmented

C-Caug-F

Classic augmented passing chord

F-Caug-C

Minor to major with augmented color

Am-Caug-F

A popular progression used in many songs

Practice Tips for C Augmented

1. Symmetrical Like Diminished

Augmented chords repeat every 4 frets

2. Whole Tone Sound

Creates dreamy, floating harmonic effect

3. Voice Leading Tool

Excellent for smooth chromatic voice leading

Music Theory Behind C Augmented

Notes in C Augmented: C - E - G#

Scale: C - E - G# (whole tone intervals)

Key Signature: Whole tone scale

Relative Major: Multiple functions

Caug is built with two major thirds (4 semitones each). It's symmetrical and creates floating, unresolved tension perfect for impressionistic harmony.

Master C Augmented Today!

C Augmented is an advanced chord that will expand your musical vocabulary significantly!