Scale Degrees
In major and minor scales, the notes are given Scale Degrees which indicate their order in the scale. The degrees are arranged around the tonic note. The Tonic Note is the first note in the scale and is considered the most important pitch because it is the tonal center. All other notes are based off of the tonic. The degree names make sense when the tonic is placed in the very center of the scale.
The Supertonic is one tone above the tonic and the Subtonic is one step below the tonic. The Mediant is a third above the tonic and the Submediant is a third below the tonic. The Dominant is a fifth above the tonic and the Subdominant is a fifth below the tonic.
The 7th scale degree can also be called the Leading Tone because it sounds like it is leading toward the Tonic note.
A third way to notate the different scale degrees is the Solfedge. You may recognize the Solfedge from "Do Re Me" in the Sound of Music.
The 7th scale degree can also be called the Leading Tone because it sounds like it is leading toward the Tonic note.
A third way to notate the different scale degrees is the Solfedge. You may recognize the Solfedge from "Do Re Me" in the Sound of Music.
Degree Number
1st 2nd 3rd 4th 5th 6th 7th 8th |
Degree Name
Tonic Supertonic Mediant Subdominant Dominant Submediant Leading Tone or Subtonic Tonic or Octave |
Solfedge
Do Re Me Fa Sol La Te Do |
Video Credit: [Do Re Mi- Sound of Music] youtube retrieved on 10/1/2013 from youtube.com