Bbaug Chord (Bb augmented) on Guitar
Bbaug (Bb augmented) is made of the notes Bb – D – F#. The easiest guitar fingering is x10332 (low E to high e; x = muted, 0 = open). It needs 4 fingers and no barre.
Easiest shape
Alternative shape
Higher position
How to play Bbaug
- Press the 5th string (A) at fret 1 (Bb).
- Play the 4th string (D) open (D).
- Press the 3rd string (G) at fret 3 (Bb).
- Press the 2nd string (B) at fret 3 (D).
- Press the 1st string (high e) at fret 2 (F#).
- Do not play the 6th string (low E).
| String | Fret | Note | Role |
|---|---|---|---|
| 6th string (low E) | x (mute) | - | |
| 5th string (A) | 1 | Bb | R |
| 4th string (D) | 0 (open) | D | 3 |
| 3rd string (G) | 3 | Bb | R |
| 2nd string (B) | 3 | D | 3 |
| 1st string (high e) | 2 | F# | #5 |
What is a Bb augmented chord?
An augmented chord is a major triad with the fifth raised a half step.
Notes and formula. Bbaug contains Bb, D, F#. Counted from the root Bb, that is R (root), 3 (major 3rd), #5 (augmented 5th). It is also written A#aug; the two names sound identical and the name used depends on the key of the song.
Sound. Dreamy, suspended and slightly unreal, because the chord is symmetrical and has no clear tonal centre.
Where it is used. Used for tension in jazz, musical theatre, and as a passing chord in classic rock and pop.
Tips for playing Bbaug
Like the diminished chord, the shape repeats every four frets. Slide it around the neck to find new colours.
Common mistake: Holding it too long. The augmented chord is a spice, not a main dish.
Related chords
Bbaug chord FAQ
What notes are in a Bbaug chord?
Bbaug (Bb augmented) contains the notes Bb, D, F#. The formula is R–3–#5 relative to the root Bb.
How do you play Bbaug on guitar?
The most common shape for Bbaug is x10332, read from the low E string to the high e string (x = muted, 0 = open, numbers = frets). It needs 4 fingers and no barre.
Is Bbaug an easy guitar chord?
It is rated intermediate. It needs 4 fingers and no barre.
Is Bbaug the same as A#aug?
Yes. Bb and A# are enharmonic: they are the same pitch with different names, so Bbaug and A#aug sound identical on guitar. The name used depends on the key of the song.
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