C whole tone scale diatonic chords
scale
Fretboard diagram
C whole tone scale — chords and intervals
Harmonizing the C whole tone scale yields a perfectly symmetrical chord set where every chord is an augmented triad or a dominant 7#5. No major or minor triads exist, creating a completely ambiguous harmonic world. The chords of C whole tone are C aug, D aug, E aug, F# aug, G# aug, A# aug. Only two unique whole tone chord families exist. These harmonies are used for impressionistic, dreamlike passages where the listener should lose their sense of tonal direction. Debussy and Ravel pioneered this approach. Commonly used in Impressionist, Film Scores, Jazz, Ambient, Experimental. Notable players include Claude Debussy, Thelonious Monk, Wayne Shorter, Joe Satriani.
The C whole tone scale has the following degrees: 1 2 3 ♯4 ♯5 ♯6.
Intervals: W-W-W-W-W-W.
Diatonic chords: C aug, D aug, E aug, F# aug, G# aug, A# aug.
| Degrees | Chord |
|---|---|
| I | C aug |
| ii | D aug |
| iii | E aug |
| IV | F# aug |
| V | G# aug |
| vi | A# aug |
Degree-by-Degree Analysis
The I chord (C aug) is the tonic — the gravitational center of the key. The ii chord (D aug) is the minor subdominant, commonly used to approach the V chord. The iii chord (E aug) functions as a substitute for the I or vi. The IV chord (F# aug) is the subdominant — it adds motion and moderate tension. The V chord (G# aug) is the dominant — it creates the strongest tension that wants to resolve to the I. The vi chord (undefined) is the relative minor — it brings emotional color and depth. The vii° chord (A# aug) 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 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 whole tone scale on guitar.
Related Scales
How to Use This Scale
Use over augmented triads, 7#5 chords. Perfect for dream sequences, transitions, and any moment where tonality should dissolve.