Major Scales and Scale Degrees

In this article, we will discuss what a major scale is, how to construct one, and how to label the notes within it.

What is a Major Scale?

First, a scale in music is simply a succession of pitches that serve as a framework for creating melodies and harmonies. We already know of one scale, the chromatic scale, which is created by joining a series of 12 half steps together. Other scales can be made by joining a series of half steps and whole steps together. For example, a major scale can be made by joining the following series of steps:

Whole-Whole-Half-Whole-Whole-Whole-Half

Notice that this is simply two series of whole-whole-half joined with a whole step. The name of a major scale simply depends on what note is the starting point before the first whole step is applied. For example, let's use this formula to derive the F major scale. 

Thus, the F major scale is:

F G A Bb C D E F

There is an even simpler way to derive major scales (which we'll discuss later), but this way is important to understand. Try practicing by deriving the following major keys:

What are Scale Degrees?

Simply put, scale degrees are the position of a given note in a scale. For example, A is the third scale degree of the F major scale. C is the fifth. E is the seventh. Simple enough, right?

Well, it never is as simple as we would hope for. Each scale degree has a special name that you should memorize. Why? We'll discuss that later... but you should do memorize it now, because it will definitely be on the exam:

Notice that each scale degree name reference the either the tonic, mediant, or dominant. These scale degrees (1, 3, and 5) form the tonic chord, which will also be discussed later, but for now, know that when these notes are played together, the listener will feel "at home." 

The 'Leading tone' may not seem to reference any of the three scale degrees mentioned above. However, it actually does, albeit it does so implicitly. 'Leading tone' references the tonic, because the term refers to the tendency for the seventh scale degree to 'lead' back to the first, as they are a half step away from each other. This leading tone/half step motion will become extremely important in the second half of the course.

Practice by writing the names of each of the following scale degrees: