Scale Degrees

Table of Contents

In the realm of music theory, scale degrees refer to the placement of individual notes within a scale in relation to the tonic, which is the first and foundational note of the scale.

Each note within a scale is assigned a specific scale degree based on its distance from the initial note.

In the following discussion, we will delve into the various scale degrees and explore the meaning of their names.

By gaining a deeper understanding of these scale degrees, we can enhance our comprehension of the musical landscape and appreciate the intricacies of note relationships within a scale.

What Is a Scale Degree?

A scale degree refers to the position of a note within a scale, indicating its numerical value or function relative to the tonic or starting note of the scale.

It is a way of identifying and categorizing the individual notes within a scale.

In a major scale, for example, the tonic (first note) is considered the first scale degree, the supertonic (second note) is the second scale degree, the mediant (third note) is the third scale degree, and so on.

Each scale degree has a specific name and function within the scale.

Scale degrees are valuable for analyzing and understanding the structure, progression, and relationships between notes in a melody or harmony.

They provide a framework for discussing and describing musical elements such as chord progressions, intervals, and melodic patterns.

By identifying and studying the scale degrees, musicians and music theorists can gain insights into the

overall organization and tonal characteristics of a piece of music.

Scale Degree Names in Major Scale and Minor Scale

Scale degree names refer to the specific labels assigned to each note within a scale, indicating its position and function relative to the tonic or starting note.

These names provide a standardized way of discussing and analyzing the individual notes within a scale.

In a major scale, the scale degree names are as follows:

Scale Degree Names in the Major Scale

Tonic (Root)
Supertonic
Mediant
Subdominant
Dominant
Submediant
Leading Tone (or Leading Note)
Tonic (Octave)

Scale Degree Names in the Minor Scale

Here are the scale degrees in the natural minor scale:

Tonic (Root)
Supertonic
Mediant
Subdominant
Dominant
Submediant
Subtonic (Leading Tone)
Tonic (Octave)

Note that the scale degrees remain the same in both major and natural minor scales.

However, the tonal center and the pattern of whole and half steps differ, resulting in different sounds and emotional qualities between the two scales.

The Meaning of Each Scale Degree Names

Each scale degree name carries a distinct identity and purpose within a scale.

In this section, we will journey through the scale degrees, unraveling their individual meanings and exploring their musical implications.

Through this exploration, we gain a deeper understanding of how scale degrees shape melodies, harmonies, and the overall tonal character of a composition.

From the foundational stability of the tonic to the expressive colors of the supertonic, mediant, subdominant, dominant, submediant, and leading tone, we will uncover the rich tapestry of meanings associated with these names.

Tonic

The tonic refers to the first scale degree or the starting note of a scale.

It is the foundational pitch around which the other notes and chords in a musical composition revolve.

The tonic is often regarded as the tonal center or the key center of a piece of music.

In tonal music, the tonic serves as a point of stability and resolution.

It establishes the key and provides a sense of tonal home. The choice of tonic is crucial in determining the overall key and tonality of a composition.

The tonic is denoted by the letter name corresponding to the starting note of the scale.

For example, in the key of C major, the tonic is C, while in the key of G major, the tonic is G.

The tonic plays a significant role in shaping the mood, character, and harmonic progression of a musical piece.

It serves as a reference point for understanding and interpreting the relationships between notes, chords, and melodies within the context of a particular key.

Supertonic

The supertonic refers to the second scale degree in a diatonic scale.

It is named as such because it is one step above the tonic, which is the first scale degree.

The supertonic is a note that holds a distinct position and function within a musical scale or key.

In the context of major scales, the supertonic is a whole step above the tonic.

For example, in the key of C major, the supertonic is D, as it is the second note in the scale. Similarly, in the key of D major, the supertonic is E.

The supertonic chord is also derived from the supertonic scale degree.

In major keys, it is typically a minor chord built on the supertonic note.

For instance, in the key of C major, the supertonic chord would be a D minor chord (D, F, A).

Mediant

The mediant refers to the third scale degree in a diatonic scale.

It is called the mediant because it is positioned in the middle between the tonic (first scale degree) and the dominant (fifth scale degree).

The mediant plays a significant role in defining the tonal character and harmonic structure of a musical composition.

In major scales, the mediant is a major third above the tonic. For example, in the key of C major, the mediant is E, as it is the third note in the scale. In the key of G major, the mediant is B.

The mediant chord is derived from the mediant scale degree. In major keys, it is typically a major chord built on the mediant note.

For instance, in the key of C major, the mediant chord would be an E major chord (E, G#, B).

The mediant contributes to the overall tonal quality, mood, and progression of a musical piece. It often serves as a point of modulation or transition to different keys or tonalities.

Subdominant

The subdominant refers to the fourth scale degree in a diatonic scale.

It is called the subdominant because it is located just below the dominant, which is the fifth scale degree.

The subdominant plays a crucial role in the harmonic progression and tonal stability of a musical composition.

In major scales, the subdominant is a perfect fourth above the tonic.

For example, in the key of C major, the subdominant note is F, as it is the fourth note in the scale. In the key of G major, the subdominant note is C.

The subdominant chord is derived from the subdominant scale degree.

In major keys, it is typically a major chord built on the subdominant note. For instance, in the key of C major, the subdominant chord would be an F major chord (F, A, C).

The subdominant has a distinct harmonic function in music. Specifically, it creates a sense of tension and prepares the listener for the resolution to the dominant and subsequent tonic.

Moreover, it is often used in chord progressions to establish a contrasting harmonic color and balance within a composition.

Understanding the subdominant helps in analyzing chord progressions, melodic structures, and the overall tonal landscape of a piece of music. It contributes to the overall harmonic flow and emotional impact of the composition.

Dominant

The dominant refers to the fifth scale degree in a diatonic scale.

It is called the dominant because it has a strong, commanding presence and holds a dominant role in establishing tonal tension and resolution within a musical composition.

In major scales, the dominant is a perfect fifth above the tonic. For example, in the key of C major, the dominant note is G, as it is the fifth note in the scale. In the key of G major, the dominant note is D.

The dominant chord is derived from the dominant scale degree.

In major keys, it is typically a major chord built on the dominant note. For instance, in the key of C major, the dominant chord would be a G major chord (G, B, D).

The dominant chord and its function have significant importance in music theory and harmony.

Specifically, it serves as a point of tension and anticipation, creating a desire for resolution back at the tonic.

The dominant chord often precedes the tonic chord, leading to a satisfying resolution and closure.

The dominant plays a crucial role in establishing key relationships, creating melodic and harmonic tension, and shaping the overall structure and progression of a musical piece.

It is a fundamental element in many chord progressions and cadences, contributing to the dynamic and expressive qualities of the music.

Submediant

The submediant refers to the sixth scale degree in a diatonic scale.

It is called the submediant because it is positioned just below the mediant, which is the third scale degree.

The submediant adds a unique flavor to the tonal palette of a musical composition.

In major scales, the submediant is a major sixth above the tonic. For example, in the key of C major, the submediant is A, as it is the sixth note in the scale. In the key of G major, the submediant is E.

The submediant chord is derived from the submediant scale degree.

In major keys, it is typically a major chord built on the submediant note.

For instance, in the key of C major, the submediant chord would be an A major chord (A, C#, E).

The submediant offers a sense of contrast and adds a touch of emotional depth to a musical composition.

It often serves as a point of modulation or tonal shift, providing a temporary change in tonality before returning to the tonic.

The submediant chord progression can create a sense of relaxation or introspection, offering a momentary departure from the prevailing tonal center.

Leading Tone

The leading tone refers to the seventh scale degree in a diatonic scale.

It is called the leading tone because of its strong tendency to lead or resolve to the tonic, which is the first scale degree.

The leading tone creates a sense of tension and anticipation, adding a heightened sense of resolution when it resolves to the tonic.

In major scales, the leading tone is a half step below the tonic. For example, in the key of C major, the leading tone is B, as it is the seventh note in the scale. In the key of G major, the leading tone is F#.

The leading tone is often associated with a diminished chord built on the leading tone note.

For instance, in the key of C major, the leading tone chord would be a B diminished chord (B, D, F).

The presence of the leading tone is significant in establishing tonal hierarchy and creating a sense of harmonic tension and resolution.

Its characteristic half-step distance from the tonic gives it a strong pull towards the tonic, providing a sense of finality and closure when it resolves.

Understanding the leading tone helps in analyzing chord progressions, melodic resolutions, and the overall tonal character of a musical composition.

It plays a crucial role in creating harmonic motion and shaping the emotional impact of the music.

Subtonic

This scale degree is perculiar to the natural minor scale. The natural minor scale exhibits a slight variation in its structure compared to other scales.

Specifically, the seventh degree of the scale is a whole step below the tonic, rather than a half step like the leading note found in other scales.

Due to this distinction, the flattened seventh note is referred to as the subtonic. However, the remaining technical names for the other scale degrees remain the same.

The prefix “sub” signifies its placement below the tonic, indicating that it is a lower note in relation to the tonic.

Octave (Tonic)

An octave in music refers to the specific interval between two notes that share the same name but are eight pitches apart.

The concept of an octave is based on the relationship between the frequencies of the two notes involved.

When a pitch is played at double the frequency of another pitch, they are considered to be an octave apart.

While the notations “8th degree” is commonly used to represent the octave, it is important to recognize that the octave is essentially a higher-pitched version of the tonic, or the first degree of the scale.

Basically, it represents the continuation of the entire scale length, rather than introducing a new scale degree.

Final Thoughts

In conclusion, scale degrees are vital tools in music theory that help us understand and communicate the relationships between notes within a scale. By assigning specific names and functions to each degree, we can analyze melodies, harmonies, chord progressions, and even key changes more effectively.

Scale degrees provide a framework for describing and discussing the structure, tonality, and emotional qualities of music.

They allow us to identify and analyze patterns, tensions, and resolutions within a piece. So, whether it’s the stable and grounding tonic, the colorful and expressive supertonic and dominant, or the tension-building leading tone, each scale degree plays a crucial role in shaping musical compositions.

By delving into the world of scale degrees, we unlock a deeper appreciation for the complexity and beauty of music. So, the next time you listen to a melody or play a chord progression, pay attention to the individual notes and their scale degrees.

You’ll discover a new level of understanding and connection to the music that surrounds you.

Keep exploring and expanding your knowledge of scale degrees, and let them guide you on a fascinating journey through the rich tapestry of music theory. Happy exploring, and may your musical adventures be filled with harmonious discoveries!

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