Diatonic Scale

Diatonic Scale

Scale Musical Scale Chromatic Scale Semitone Diatonic Semitone Musical Concept

The diatonic scale is a fundamental structure in Western music theory. It consists of **seven different pitch classes** arranged in a specific order of whole and half steps. This pattern defines both the **major** and **natural minor** scales.

Structure

In whole (W) and half (H) steps:

• Major scale: **W–W–H–W–W–W–H**
• Natural minor scale: **W–H–W–W–H–W–W**

Example

• C Major: C – D – E – F – G – A – B – C
• A Minor: A – B – C – D – E – F – G – A

Characteristics

• Contains seven notes per octave
• Defines traditional Western tonality
• Contrasts with the Chromatic Scale, which includes all twelve semitones

Related Terms

• Diatonic Semitone
• Chromatic Semitone
• Major Scale
• Minor Scale

See also

• Chromatic Scale
• Semitone
• Equal Temperament