Whole Tone Scale Starting on C: A Detailed Exploration

The whole tone scale, a unique and intriguing musical construct, is a sequence of tones that are all whole steps apart. When starting on C, this scale becomes a fascinating tool for composers and musicians alike. Let’s delve into the various aspects of the whole tone scale starting on C, exploring its history, structure, and applications.

History of the Whole Tone Scale

The whole tone scale has its roots in ancient music theory. It was first documented in the 17th century by the Italian composer Girolamo Frescobaldi. However, its use was limited until the late 19th century when composers like Claude Debussy and Arnold Schoenberg began to experiment with it. The whole tone scale’s distinctive sound has since become a staple in modern music.

Structure of the Whole Tone Scale

The whole tone scale starting on C consists of the following notes: C, D, E, F, G, A, and B. As mentioned earlier, each note is a whole step apart. This means that the distance between each note is two semitones, or half steps. The structure of the whole tone scale can be represented as follows:

Notes	Whole Tone Scale Starting on C
C	C
D	D
E	E
F	F
G	G
A	A
B	B

One of the most notable characteristics of the whole tone scale is its lack of a clear tonal center. This absence of a root note makes it a versatile tool for creating tension and dissonance in music.

Applications of the Whole Tone Scale

The whole tone scale starting on C can be used in various musical contexts. Here are a few examples:

Composing Melodies: The whole tone scale’s unique sound can add a sense of mystery and intrigue to melodies. Composers like Debussy often used the whole tone scale to create haunting and ethereal melodies.
Harmony: The whole tone scale can be used to create dissonant harmonies that add tension and excitement to a piece. This can be particularly effective in jazz and avant-garde music.
Improvisation: Musicians can use the whole tone scale to create improvisations that are both challenging and rewarding. The lack of a clear tonal center encourages exploration and experimentation.

Comparing the Whole Tone Scale to Other Scales

When comparing the whole tone scale starting on C to other scales, it’s important to note the differences in their structures and sounds. Here’s a brief comparison:

Scale	Notes	Distance Between Notes
C Major Scale	C, D, E, F, G, A, B	Whole Step, Whole Step, Half Step, Whole Step, Whole Step, Whole Step, Half Step
C Minor Scale	C, D, Eb, F, G, Ab, Bb	Whole Step, Half Step, Whole Step, Whole Step, Whole Step, Half Step, Whole Step
C Whole Tone Scale	C, D, E, F, G, A, B	Whole Step, Whole Step, Whole Step, Whole Step, Whole Step, Whole Step