On “augmented seconds”:
Augmented second is an enharmonic equivalent interval to a minor third, but it’s termed as such because it’s derived from the harmonic minor scale, where the seventh degree is raised, creating a leading tone (which is a half step below the tonic) to the tonic.
Here’s an example of the augmented second, in Michael Schachter’s entry work for the Young Composers Competition of “Oseh Shalom”.
Natural minor scale, followed by harmonic minor scale:
The augmented minor is typical to many other middle eastern cultures.
Click image to view “Playing around with harmonic minor/Arabic sounding scales:”
