THEORY HELPERG Whole Tone Scale
Floating, impressionist
What is the G Whole Tone Scale?
The Whole Tone scale consists entirely of whole steps, creating a floating, dreamlike quality with no sense of tonal center. This symmetrical structure divides the octave into six equal parts, producing an otherworldly, impressionistic sound.
Interval Pattern: W-W-W-W-W-W
Scale Notes and Intervals
G Whole Tone
DreamyG 1
A 2
B 3
Db 4
Eb 5
F 6
Notes:
G -A -B -Db -Eb -F
Intervals:
WWWWW W
Keyboard Visualization
How to Play G Whole Tone on Piano
Scale Properties
Mood
DreamyCharacter
Floating, impressionistGenres
Jazz, Film, AmbientNotes in Scale
6 notes: G, A, B, Db, Eb, FCategory
SymmetricIntervals
W-W-W-W-W-WHistory and Origins
The Background of the Whole Tone Scale
Championed by Claude Debussy and the French Impressionists in the late 19th century to escape traditional harmony. It became a staple of film music for dream sequences, mystery, and supernatural themes.
Musical Characteristics
Key Features of the G Whole Tone Scale
- Six notes, all whole steps apart
- No half steps - completely symmetrical
- Only two possible whole tone scales exist
- Augmented quality throughout
Famous Songs Using This Scale
Popular Tracks in G Whole Tone
- Voiles - Claude Debussy
- You Are the Sunshine of My Life (intro) - Stevie Wonder
- Dream sequences in countless films
- Superman Theme (specific moments)
Playing Tips
How to Practice the G Whole Tone Scale
Only two whole tone scales exist (C and Db), so transposition is limited. Use over augmented and dominant 7#5 chords. Perfect for creating dreamlike, suspended-in-time feelings.
Circle of Fifths Position
G in the Circle of Fifths
Major
Minor
Selected