📚 Topic Summary
The whole tone scale is a musical scale in which each note is separated from its neighbors by a whole step interval. There are only two unique whole tone scales because after six whole steps, you arrive back at the starting note. This scale lacks perfect fifths, leading to a unique, dreamlike, and unresolved quality. Mastering this scale can add a distinct flavor to your improvisations and compositions.
🔤 Part A: Vocabulary
Match the terms with their definitions:
| Term |
Definition |
| 1. Whole Step |
A. A scale containing only whole steps |
| 2. Interval |
B. The distance between two notes |
| 3. Whole Tone Scale |
C. An interval of two semitones |
| 4. Semitone |
D. The quality of sounding unresolved or indefinite |
| 5. Atonality |
E. An interval of one semitone |
(Answers: 1-C, 2-B, 3-A, 4-E, 5-D)
✍️ Part B: Fill in the Blanks
The whole tone scale is constructed entirely of ______ steps. Because of this, it creates a sound that often feels ________ and unresolved. There are only ______ unique whole tone scales. Composers use it to evoke a sense of _______ or otherworldliness, avoiding traditional _______ progressions.
(Answers: whole, ambiguous, two, mystery, chord)
🤔 Part C: Critical Thinking
How can incorporating the whole tone scale change the overall mood or feeling of a musical piece? Provide an example of a musical genre where the whole tone scale might be particularly effective, and explain why.