Whole Tone Scales: A Comprehensive Guide

Whole tone scales, often referred to as the “octave” or “perfect” scale, are a unique and intriguing musical concept. They consist of eight notes, each a whole tone apart from the next, creating a harmonious and somewhat dissonant sound. In this article, we will delve into the various aspects of whole tone scales, including their history, construction, and applications in music.

History of Whole Tone Scales

The concept of whole tone scales dates back to ancient times, with evidence of their use in various cultures. However, it was not until the 20th century that whole tone scales gained significant attention in Western music. Composers such as Arnold Schoenberg and B茅la Bart贸k extensively utilized whole tone scales in their compositions, pushing the boundaries of traditional harmony and melody.

Construction of Whole Tone Scales

Whole tone scales are constructed by taking any note on the chromatic scale and raising it by a whole tone (two semitones) until the octave is reached. For example, starting from the note C, the whole tone scale would be: C, D, F, G, A, C. This pattern can be applied to any note on the chromatic scale, resulting in a unique and distinctive sound.

Here is a table showing the construction of whole tone scales starting from each note on the chromatic scale:

Starting Note	Whole Tone Scale
C	C, D, F, G, A, C
C	C, D, F, G, A, C
D	D, E, G, A, B, D
D	D, E, G, A, B, D
E	E, F, G, A, B, E
F	F, G, A, B, C, F
F	F, G, A, B, C, F
G	G, A, B, C, D, G
G	G, A, B, C, D, G

Applications in Music

Whole tone scales have found their way into various genres and styles of music. Here are a few notable examples:

Classical Music: As mentioned earlier, Arnold Schoenberg and B茅la Bart贸k were prominent composers who used whole tone scales in their works. Their compositions, such as Schoenberg’s “Verkl盲rte Nacht” and Bart贸k’s “Music for Strings, Percussion, and Celesta,” showcase the unique sound and harmonic possibilities of whole tone scales.

Jazz Music: Whole tone scales are often used in jazz improvisation, particularly in the blues and modal jazz genres. The use of whole tone scales in jazz allows for a more open and exploratory approach to harmony, providing musicians with a rich palette of sounds to work with.

Rock Music: Whole tone scales have been employed by various rock musicians and bands, such as Radiohead and Tool. These bands use whole tone scales to create a sense of tension and release, adding a unique flavor to their music.

Challenges and Considerations

While whole tone scales offer a unique and intriguing sound, they also present some challenges for musicians. The lack of a clear tonal center and the absence of diatonic harmony can make it difficult to navigate and understand. However, with practice and experimentation, musicians can overcome these challenges and harness the full potential of whole tone scales.

Conclusion

Whole tone scales are a fascinating and versatile musical concept that has been used by composers and musicians across various genres. Their unique sound and harmonic possibilities make them a valuable tool for any musician looking to explore new and innovative