Level 2

Scale Degrees

Use numbers and harmonic roles to understand music in every key.

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Number the Notes

A scale degree is a note position counted from the root. Degrees let you describe the same musical idea without tying it to one key.

DegreeC majorG major
1CG
2DA
3EB
4FC
5GD
6AE
7BF#
The numbers stay constant while the note names change with the key
Portable Music

A melody written as 1 3 5 means C E G in C major and G B D in G major. The relationship survives transposition.

Quick Check

What is degree 5 in C major?

Quick Check

What does the pattern 1 3 5 produce in G major?

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