Playing the Gaug Piano Chord
The Gaug chord is a augmented chord built on the root G. It contains 3 notes: G, B, D#. On piano, this chord is played by pressing these keys simultaneously or as an arpeggio.
A major triad with a raised fifth. Creates a mysterious, unsettled sound. Mastering the Gaug chord opens up countless songs and progressions in the key of G.
Piano Finger Positions for Gaug
For the Gaug triad chord, use these finger positions:
- Right hand (root position): Thumb (1) on G, middle finger (3) on B, pinky (5) on D#.
- Left hand (root position): Pinky (5) on G, middle finger (3) on B, thumb (1) on D#.
- Arpeggiated: Play the notes sequentially from lowest to highest for a broken triad effect.
Gaug Chord Inversions
Inversions change the bass note while keeping the same harmonic quality:
| Inversion | Bass Note | Notes (bottom to top) | Sound |
|---|---|---|---|
| Root | G | G – B – D# | Most stable |
| 1st | B | B – D# – G | Lighter, less stable |
Interval Structure of Gaug
| Degree | Interval | Semitones | Note in G |
|---|---|---|---|
| Root | Root (R) | 0 | G |
| 3rd | Major 3rd | 4 | B |
| 5th | Augmented 5th | 8 | D# |
Common Progressions with Gaug on Piano
- I–IV–V–I: Gaug – Caug – Daug – Gaug (classic cadence)
- I–V–vi–IV: Gaug – D – Em – C (pop progression)
- ii–V–I: Am – D – Gaug (jazz turnaround)