Scale Degree
Definition
Scale degree refers to each note's position within a scale. It helps us identify and analyze the relationship between notes in a melody or harmony.
Analogy
Think of scale degrees as different floors in a building. Just like how each floor has its own number, each note in a scale has its own scale degree. The first floor (scale degree 1) is like the home base, while the higher floors (scale degrees 2, 3, etc.) take us further away from the ground.
Related terms
Tonic: The tonic is the first scale degree and serves as the home note or tonal center of a key.
Dominant: The dominant is the fifth scale degree and creates tension that resolves back to the tonic.
Leading Tone: The leading tone is the seventh scale degree and has a strong pull towards resolving to the tonic.
"Scale Degree" appears in:
Resources
© 2024 Fiveable Inc. All rights reserved.
AP® and SAT® are trademarks registered by the College Board, which is not affiliated with, and does not endorse this website.