MusicLesson 2 of 4 in the course Scales and harmony

Natural Major Scales, Key Signatures, and Related Modes

5 flashcards · 5 quiz questions · 5 match pairs · 5 fill-in sentences · English

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Summary

The natural major scale is a foundational sound pattern in Western music. Its ordered steps create a recognizable tonal framework, while its scale degrees provide the basis for melodies and chords.

A major scale is a sequence of notes whose tonic supports a major triad. Most often, the term refers to the natural major scale, also called the Ionian mode. It is a diatonic scale used extensively in Western music.

All flashcards

What is the natural major scale?
A seven-note diatonic scale, also called the Ionian mode, with the pattern W-W-H-W-W-W-H.
What does tonic mean?
The first scale degree and tonal center; the scale is named for this pitch.
What is a leading tone?
Scale degree 7 in a major scale, a half step below the tonic that often leads toward it.
What is the triad-quality pattern in a major scale?
From degrees 1 through 7: major, minor, minor, major, major, minor, diminished.
What seventh chord is built on degree 7 of a major scale?
A half-diminished seventh chord, written viiø7; in C major, Bø7, also called Bm7♭5.

Quiz questions

  1. Which sequence gives the whole-step and half-step pattern of the natural major scale?Answer: W-W-H-W-W-W-H
  2. Which pitches appear as flats in the key signature of E-flat major?Answer: B♭, E♭, and A♭
  3. Which sequence gives the order in which sharps are added to major key signatures?Answer: F♯, C♯, G♯, D♯, A♯, E♯, B♯
  4. How does harmonic major differ from the natural major scale?Answer: It has a lowered sixth degree.
  5. What is the natural major scale called in Carnatic music?Answer: Sankarabharanam

Based on the Wikipedia article Major scale, licensed CC BY-SA 4.0. Adapted into a summary, flashcards and quizzes.

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