Whole Tone Scale

Whole Tone Scale

Scale Musical Scale Non-Diatonic Scale Chromatic Scale

The whole tone scale is a six-note scale built entirely of whole steps. It lacks semitones and a clear tonal center, producing a dreamy or ambiguous sound.

Example

• C – D – E – F♯ – G♯ – A♯ – (C)

Characteristics

• No leading tone or dominant function
• Often used in impressionist music (Debussy, Ravel)
• Creates a "floating" or unresolved quality

See also

• Musical Scale
• Chromatic Scale
• Diatonic Scale