Music Theory Tutorials

Scale Degree Names

Each note in a scale has a name that matches its function. We'll learn more about what those functions are in more advanced tutorials. For now, it is good to know the names. These names apply to all major and minor scales.

  • 1st - Tonic
  • 2nd - Supertonic
  • 3rd - Mediant
  • 4th - Subdominant
  • 5th - Dominant
  • 6th - Submediant
  • 7th - Leading Tone
C Major with Scale Degree Names

To practice memorizing these, try taking the Scale Degree Names Quiz.