The Whole Tone Scale

                The whole tone scale is a six pitched scale composed of six consecutive whole steps.  Remember that there are only 12 chromatic pitches in music.  Therefore, the six symmetrical whole steps of this scale represent half of the 12 chromatic pitches found in music.  This means that there are only two whole tone scales. 

                One of these whole tone scales contains the pitches C-D-E-F#-G#-Bb.  The other scale contains the pitches Db-Eb-F-G-A-B.  I happened to start these two scale examples on C and Db, but any pitch in the scale can be considered a valid starting point.  Other starting points are just inversions of the same group of six pitches. 

                There are no official rules for properly spelling the pitches of a whole tone scale.  There are, however, some helpful tips to consider.  First, use a spelling that will make the scale easiest for the performer to read.  Your spelling may vary based on the tonal context of your musical application.  For example, the starting pitch you select for the scale or the key of the piece you are applying the scale to may cause variations in the spelling you use.  Next, try to maintain a consistent spelling within the same musical phrase or section.  Finally, try to avoid double flats, double sharps and white note sharps/flats (Cb, B#, Fb and E#). 

               Due to the number of variables in spelling (depending on the musical context) I will not attempt to provide a sheet music scale listing for practice purposes.  Writing out your own scales and spellings based on the musical context of your application would be a much better practice exercise.  Once you are proficient in performing the scale with various starting points, then concentrate your efforts on studding the proper musical application of the scale.

                The whole tone scale is often used to create a floating or ethereal effect within the music.  It can be found in many musical genres, and is used heavily in impressionistic music.  The tasteful use of this scale in musical improvisation helps to add more variety and color to your musical pallet.  However, the sound created by this scale does not apply to every musical context.  The whole tone scale lends itself to being played over chords with a raised 5^th.  The ideal chord for this scale is the dominant 7+ which contains a raised 5^th and raised 11^th.         

                 In this Learning Music With Ray video I discuss the definition and composition of the whole tone scale.  I discuss the number of pitches that a whole tone scale is composed of, and the fact that there are basically only two whole tone scales to learn.  Finally I cover tips on how to use this scale in musical improvisation.