Explore the sound of this third mode from the Neapolitan Minor Scale
The Mixolydian Augmented scale is one of those scales that can really open up new avenues in your playing and composition. It’s not a scale you come across every day, but once you get into it, you’ll find it has a distinct sound that can add an entirely new dimension to your music. This scale is actually the third mode of the Neapolitan Minor scale, which already tells you it’s going to have some interesting qualities.
So, what’s the deal with the Mixolydian Augmented scale? Imagine you’re playing a standard Mixolydian scale—let’s say in C. You’ve got C-D-E-F-G-A-Bb, which is basically a major scale with a flattened seventh. Now, in the Mixolydian Augmented scale, you take that Mixolydian sound and raise the fifth degree by a half step. So, instead of C-D-E-F-G-A-Bb, you get:
C - D - E - F - G# - A - Bb
That sharp fifth is the magic ingredient here. It gives the scale an edgy, almost mysterious vibe that’s really fun to play around with.
This scale has some cool harmonic implications, especially when it comes to dominant chords. Typically, a dominant chord resolves to the tonic, right? Well, when you introduce that augmented fifth into the mix, the chord takes on a different character. It’s still got that dominant feel, but now it’s leaning towards something more ambiguous, something that leaves the listener hanging just a bit longer before resolving. This makes it a great tool for adding tension and surprise in your music.
Melodically, the Mixolydian Augmented scale is just a playground. The raised fifth creates a distinctive sound that can really stand out in your solos or melodies. It’s got a mix of brightness and tension that’s not quite like anything else. You can use it to craft lines that are both melodic and slightly unsettling, perfect for when you want to take your audience on an unexpected journey. Whether you’re improvising or writing, this scale can give you that extra edge.
In classical music, you might not hear the Mixolydian Augmented scale mentioned explicitly, but its influence is there, particularly in works that play with chromaticism and altered dominants.
Composers who love pushing harmonic boundaries, like Richard Wagner, have used similar sounds to add layers of complexity and emotion to their music. While it might not have been named as such back then, the concept of raising the fifth to create tension is definitely something that’s been explored in the past.
When it comes to modern music, the Mixolydian Augmented scale finds a home in jazz and fusion, where musicians are always on the lookout for new scales and modes to experiment with. The scale’s altered dominant sound fits perfectly in these genres, giving players a way to spice up their solos and harmonic progressions. It’s one of those scales that can set your playing apart, adding a unique twist that catches the ear of anyone who’s listening.
Film composers, too, have tapped into the sounds of the Mixolydian Augmented scale. Its ability to create a sense of unresolved tension makes it perfect for scoring scenes that require a bit of ambiguity or suspense. Whether it’s used subtly in the background or brought to the forefront in a dramatic moment, this scale helps create the kind of atmosphere that can elevate a film’s emotional impact.
If you’re looking to incorporate the Mixolydian Augmented scale into your compositions or improvisations, start by getting comfortable with its unique intervals. Practice it in all twelve keys, paying special attention to how the raised fifth interacts with the rest of the scale. Try using it over dominant chords and see how it changes the feel of your progressions. The more you experiment, the more you’ll discover the scale’s potential to transform your music.
Emotionally, the Mixolydian Augmented scale is a bit of a wild card. It can sound bright and uplifting thanks to its major third and natural sixth, but the augmented fifth throws in just the right amount of tension and unpredictability. This makes it a versatile tool for expressing a wide range of emotions, from excitement to suspense to a sense of the unknown. It’s the kind of scale that invites you to explore its depths and find new ways to convey your musical ideas.
So, if you’re ready to add something fresh and exciting to your musical toolkit, the Mixolydian Augmented scale is definitely worth exploring. It’s not just another scale; it’s a gateway to new sonic possibilities. Whether you’re composing, improvising, or just jamming, this scale can add a unique flavor to your music that will make you stand out as a musician.
Give it a try — you might just find it’s the secret ingredient you’ve been looking for.
