What is a Leading Tone?

A leading tone is the seventh note of a scale that is positioned one semitone below the tonic. Because it sits so close to the tonic, it creates a strong sense of tension that naturally resolves upward to the tonic note. This tendency to move toward the tonic is what gives the leading tone its name.

For example, in the C major scale, the notes are C, D, E, F, G, A, and B. In this scale, B is the leading tone because it is only one semitone below the tonic note C. When the note B is played in a melody or harmony, it often feels as though it wants to resolve upward to C.

Leading tones play an important role in harmony and melody because they help create movement and resolution in music. They are especially important in dominant chords, which often include the leading tone to strengthen the pull back toward the tonic. This strong sense of direction helps give music its feeling of tension and release.