What is a Whole Tone Scale?

A whole tone scale is a musical scale in which every note is separated by a whole step. This means that each note in the scale is two semitones apart from the next. Because the pattern is made entirely of whole steps, the scale has six notes within an octave instead of the seven notes found in major or minor scales.

For example, a C whole tone scale would include the notes C, D, E, F♯, G♯, and A♯ before returning to C. Since every interval in the scale is the same size, the scale has a very symmetrical structure. This symmetry removes the strong sense of tonal center found in many other scales.

The sound of the whole tone scale is often described as dreamy, ambiguous, or floating because it lacks the tension and resolution of traditional scales. Composers frequently use it to create unusual or atmospheric effects. The scale appears in classical music, jazz, film scores, and modern compositions where musicians want to create a sense of mystery or suspension.