Musical Chord
An application for you to study music.
Tools for musicians, exercises on music theory, ear training, and direct-to-the-point theoretical content. Designed for singers, guitarists, keyboard players, bassists, drummers, and general musicians from beginners to advanced levels.
Hexatonic Scale
The word "hexatonic" derives from the Greek "hexa," meaning six, and "phonic," referring to sounds or notes. Therefore, a hexatonic scale consists of six notes.
Whole Tone Scale
The whole tone scale is one of the most common forms of the hexatonic scale. It is formed exclusively by whole tone intervals between each note. Lacking semitones, this scale creates a "mysterious" sound and is often used to create effects of suspension and tonal ambiguity.
Structure of the Whole Tone Scale
The formula of the whole tone scale is:
- Tonic: 1st note
- Major second: 2nd note
- Major third: 3rd note
- Augmented fourth: 4th note
- Augmented fifth: 5th note
- Minor seventh: 6th note
Examples of Whole Tone Scale
| Key | Scale Notes |
|---|---|
| C | C, D, E, F#, G#, A# |
| D | D, E, F#, G#, A#, C |
| E | E, F#, G#, A#, C, D |
| F | F, G, A, B, D, E |
| G | G, A, B, C#, D#, F |
| A | A, B, C#, D#, F, G |
| B | B, C#, D#, F, G, A |
Usage in Music
The hexatonic scale can be used over dominant chords, more precisely on altered dominants. To do this, you need to play the hexatonic scale corresponding to the specific dominant chord.
If you have a sequence where the dominant chord is a D7, for example, play its hexatonic scale over that chord. For instance, in the progression Em7 | D7 | G, you can play the D whole tone scale over the D7 chord.
Conclusion
The hexatonic scale is a powerful and versatile tool in music, offering a unique sound and various creative possibilities. Whether in classical, jazz, or contemporary music, understanding and practicing the hexatonic scale can enrich your musical palette and open new doors for artistic expression. Try incorporating it into your compositions and improvisations to discover new dimensions in your music.