MUSIC THEORY • Lesson 10
Scale Degrees
Number every note in the major scale. Learn the classic names. See why numbers let you move in any key with confidence.
What is a scale degree
A scale degree is the position of a note inside a scale, counted from the root. The root is one. Then we count up to seven, and the cycle returns to the root.
C major numbered
C = 1
D = 2
E = 3
F = 4
G = 5
A = 6
B = 7
C = 1
Same logic works in every key. Numbers stay the same. Letters change with the key.
C major on the piano with degrees
C major letters
C D E F G A B C
Degrees
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 1
The classic names
These names describe the role each degree tends to play.
1 Tonic
2 Supertonic
3 Mediant
4 Subdominant
5 Dominant
6 Submediant
7 Leading tone
Use numbers first. Names will click with regular practice.
Why this matters
Numbers give a universal way to speak about music. Many players use roman numerals in place of letters. One four five means the same pattern in any key.
Examples
G major
G A B C D E F♯ G
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 1
G major letters
G A B C D E F♯ G
Degrees
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 1
Practice
- Pick any major scale you built.
- Write the letters in order.
- Label each note one through seven.
- Play the scale and say the numbers out loud.
- Play again and say the letters.
This builds the habit of switching between letters and numbers with ease.
Next lesson
Up next build triads by stacking degrees. That unlocks chords and real progressions.
Continue to Lesson 11
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