C leading whole tone scale diatonic chords
C leading whole tone scale seventh chords
scale
Fretboard diagram
C leading whole tone scale — chords and intervals
The harmonized C leading whole tone scale generates a chord set that floats through whole-tone ambiguity before arriving at a point of resolution. The chords from C leading whole tone are C augmented, D augmented, E major, F# unknown, G# diminished, C unknown, B minor. The final degree provides the leading-tone tension that whole-tone harmony alone cannot achieve. Use these chords to create passages that drift weightlessly before landing on a satisfying cadence. Commonly used in Impressionist, Film Scores, Jazz. Notable players include Claude Debussy, Maurice Ravel.
The C leading whole tone scale has the following degrees: 1 2 3 ♯4 ♯5 ♭7 7.
Intervals: W-W-W-W-W-H-H.
Diatonic chords: C augmented, D augmented, E major, F# unknown, G# diminished, C unknown, B minor.
| Degrees | Chord |
|---|---|
| I | C augmented |
| ii | D augmented |
| iii | E major |
| IV | F# unknown |
| V | G# diminished |
| vi | C unknown |
| vii° | B minor |
Degree-by-Degree Analysis
The I chord (C augmented) is the tonic — the gravitational center of the key. The ii chord (D augmented) is the minor subdominant, commonly used to approach the V chord. The iii chord (E major) functions as a substitute for the I or vi. The IV chord (F# unknown) is the subdominant — it adds motion and moderate tension. The V chord (G# diminished) is the dominant — it creates the strongest tension that wants to resolve to the I. The vi chord (C unknown) is the relative minor — it brings emotional color and depth. The vii° chord (B minor) is the diminished — the most tense, rarely used alone, usually leading to the I.
This page focuses on the harmonic content — the chords built from each degree of the C leading whole tone scale. For fretboard patterns and fingering guides, see the scale page.
Use the interactive harmonizer above to explore triads, seventh chords, and chord voicings for composing with the C leading whole tone scale on guitar.
Related Scales
How to Use This Scale
Use as a transition device or over augmented chords that need to resolve. The leading tone provides a gentle gravitational pull absent in pure whole tone.