Ionian #5 (Ionian Augmented) for Guitar
The Ionian #5 scale, also called Ionian Augmented, is a major scale with the fifth raised a half step: 1 2 3 4 #5 6 7. It is the third mode of harmonic minor.
The raised fifth turns the tonic triad into an augmented triad, so the scale suits maj7#5 sounds. Select a key to see its notes and fretboard patterns.
C Ionian #5 Scale: box pattern, position 1
Structure
How the ionian #5 scale is built:
The ionian #5 scale is built from the degrees 1 2 3 4 #5 6 7, which gives the step pattern W-W-H-W+H-H-W-H (W = whole step, H = half step).
Counting in semitones from the root: 0, 2, 4, 5, 8, 9, 11. That makes it a 7-note scale.
It is mode 3 of the Harmonic Minor Scale, so both scales share the same notes from a different starting point.
It is also known as Ionian Augmented.
Choose a key
The Ionian #5 Scale at a glance
| Also known as | Ionian Augmented |
|---|---|
| Formula | 1 2 3 4 #5 6 7 |
| Step pattern | W-W-H-W+H-H-W-H |
| Notes | 7 |
| Comes from | Mode 3 of the Harmonic Minor Scale |
| Sound | Bright major with a floating, unresolved raised 5th. |
| Used for | Augmented and maj7#5 tonic chords, colour in major-key writing. |
| Chords to try in C | Caug, Cmaj7#5 |
Scales close to Ionian #5
- Major Scale: 5 instead of #5
- Harmonic Major Scale: 5 instead of 6
- Lydian Augmented Scale: #4 instead of 4
More Modes from the Harmonic Minor Scale
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Created by
Giancarlo is a musician (teaching guitar since 2000), software engineer, AI consultant and published researcher
FAQ
What is the Ionian #5 Scale?
Bright major with a floating, unresolved raised 5th. Its formula is 1 2 3 4 #5 6 7, a 7-note scale. Typical use: Augmented and maj7#5 tonic chords, colour in major-key writing.
What are the notes of the C Ionian #5 scale?
The C Ionian #5 scale is C, D, E, F, G#, A, B.
What chords can I play the Ionian #5 Scale over?
In the key of C, try Caug and Cmaj7#5.
