Scales are the fundamental elements of music.
A guitar chord is a combination of notes played simultaneously on a guitar. It forms a harmonic sound and is typically used to accompany melodies or provide rhythm in music.
Components of a Scales
A scale in music is a sequence of notes ordered by pitch, either ascending or descending. Scales are foundational in music theory, providing the framework for melody, harmony, and improvisation. Here are the main components of a scale:
Tonic (Root Note)
- The Scale’s starting note establishes its key
- Example: “C” is the tonic in the C major scale.
Intervals
- The distance between each pair of adjacent notes in the Scale.
- Example: The major Scale has a pattern of whole steps (W) and half steps (H) as follows:
- W-W-H-W-W-W-H
Mode (Type of Scale)
- The structure or formula defines how the notes are arranged. Common scales include:
- Major Scale (e.g., C Major: C-D-E-F-G-A-B-C)
- Minor Scale (e.g., A Minor: A-B-C-D-E-F-G-A)
- Pentatonic Scale (five notes)
- Chromatic Scale (all twelve notes)
- Modes (e.g., Dorian, Phrygian, Lydian)
Functionality of Notes
- Each note has a role in creating tension and resolution:
- Tonic: The stable, home note.
- Dominant: Creates tension leading back to the tonic.
- Leading Tone: Pulls strongly towards the tonic.
Scale Degrees
- The individual notes on a scale, each assigned a number relative to the tonic.
- On a significant scale, they are typically named:
- Tonic (1st)
- Supertonic (2nd)
- Mediant (3rd)
- Subdominant (4th)
- Dominant (5th)
- Submediant (6th)
- Leading Tone (7th)
Octave
- The range between the first note (tonic) and its higher equivalent.
- Example: In the C major scale, the first and eighth notes are “C” but one octave apart.
Key Signature
- Determine which notes are sharp (#) or flat (♭) on the Scale.
- Example: The key signature of G major has one sharp (F#).