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4.3.2
What Are Scale Degrees? Scale Degree Numbers

Figure 18 (below) shows all eight notes of the major scale, beginning and ending with C. However, there are other scales besides the scale of C major. So, to discuss interval dynamics in general, not just for the C major scale, it’s necessary to assign numbers to each of the tones of the scale.

When you number each note of the diatonic scale, the numbered notes are called scale degrees.

Diatonic musical scale of C major showing scale degrees, which are numbers.

FIGURE 18: The Major Scale Showing Scale Degree Numbers

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