Whole tone
An interval spanning two semitones, equivalent to a major second.
Category
intervals
Origin
English
Length
161 words · 1 min read
About Whole tone
The whole tone (also called a whole step or major second) is the distance of two semitones — for example, from C to D or from E to F♯. It is one of the two building blocks of diatonic scales: a major scale is constructed from a specific pattern of whole tones and semitones (T-T-S-T-T-T-S).
More intervals terms
Major Sixth
View all intervalsterms →An interval spanning nine semitones, often described as warm, open, and gently uplifting.
Minor SeventhAn interval spanning ten semitones, central to dominant seventh chords and the blues sound.
AugmentedAn interval that has been widened by one semitone beyond its major or perfect form.
SemitoneThe smallest interval in standard Western music
Major SecondAn interval spanning two semitones, equivalent to a whole tone or whole step.
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