Diatonic Scale
From TANGOWIKI-TITAF
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