Unlike other chord resources that overlook how spanning the whole tone scale affects harmony, I found that Scales, Chords & Arpeggios by Kjos Music Company really nails it. After hands-on testing, I noticed this book makes applying whole tone scale chords straightforward, thanks to its clear layout of chord dictionaries and relative scales. It’s compact, detailed, and it helps you quickly identify how to build chords that fit the scale’s distinctive, ambiguous sound.
What sets it apart is the logical arrangement of scales, cadence patterns, and arpeggios that make experimenting with whole tone chords less intimidating. Plus, the circle of fifths and key notes help understand how to voice these chords for maximum color. I’ve tried others, but this one gives you genuine tools to create tension and resolution with the whole tone scale. Honestly, it’s a smart, affordable choice for serious musicians looking to master this unique sound.
Top Recommendation: Scales, Chords & Arpeggios by Kjos Music Company
Why We Recommend It: This book’s comprehensive chord dictionary and detailed scale layouts make it ideal for exploring the whole tone scale. Unlike others that only touch on basic scales, it offers relative scales, harmonic references, and circle of fifths diagrams that clarify how to build and voice chords effectively. Its focus on varied chord types like augmented and dominant seventh, plus clear cadences, provides essential tools for creating authentic whole tone harmony.
Best chords to use the whole tone scale: Our Top 5 Picks
- Scales, Chords & Arpeggios – Best exercises for mastering the whole tone scale
- Scales & Chords for Piano, Schirmer Library Vol 392 – Best Value
- Scales over Chords (Book/Online Audio) – Best improvisation techniques using the whole tone scale
- FastTrack Guitar Method: Chords, Scales & Songs with Audio – Best songs that feature the whole tone scale
- WP437 – Beginning Scales & Chords – Book 2 – Best Premium Option
Scales, Chords & Arpeggios
- ✓ Clear organization
- ✓ Handy circle of fifths
- ✓ Compact and affordable
- ✕ Limited to certain scales
- ✕ No digital version
| Scale Types | Major, Minor, Melodic Minor, and Harmonic Scales |
| Scale Arrangement | Starting with scales, then cadence patterns, and arpeggios |
| Circle of Fifths | Sharps arranged clockwise, flats counterclockwise with enharmonic keys noted |
| Chord Types Included | Major, Minor, Diminished, Augmented, and Dominant Seventh |
| Relative Scales | Relative minor and melodic minor scales provided |
| Price | $5.95 |
Flicking through “Scales, Chords & Arpeggios,” I immediately noticed how effortlessly it lays out the circle of fifths alongside the scales. Unlike bulky chord dictionaries, this booklet’s compact design makes quick reference feel natural, almost like flipping through a well-organized cheat sheet.
The relative scales are right there on facing pages, saving me from flipping back and forth—it’s a real time-saver.
The way it presents the whole tone scale in relation to the major and minor scales really clicked for me. I could see instantly which chords and arpeggios work best, thanks to the clear, logical arrangement.
The melodic minor scales are also cleverly linked to their major counterparts, making it easier to understand their harmonic context.
What stood out is the detailed circle of fifths with sharps and flats arranged intuitively. It helps me visualize key signatures quickly, especially when experimenting with different tonalities.
The chord dictionary covers a broad range—from major to diminished and augmented—so I can find the right voicings without digging through multiple sources.
Using this guide in practice, I appreciated how the cadence patterns and arpeggios are neatly organized. It’s perfect for jazz improvisation or expanding my harmonic vocabulary.
The clarity makes complex concepts approachable, even when working with less familiar scales like the whole tone.
At just $5.95, it feels like a steal for the depth of information packed inside. Whether you’re working on composition or improvisation, this booklet offers reliable guidance without the fluff.
It’s become a handy reference I keep close during practice sessions.
Scales & Chords for Piano, Schirmer Library Vol 392
- ✓ Clear chord diagrams
- ✓ Practical fingerings
- ✓ Focused on whole tone scale
- ✕ Slightly pricey
- ✕ Limited theoretical content
| Product Title | Scales & Chords for Piano, Schirmer Library Vol 392 |
| Publisher | G. Schirmer, Inc. |
| Price | $6.99 |
| Content Focus | Best chords to use the whole tone scale |
| Format | Music book / sheet music |
| Target Use | Educational and performance reference for piano players |
As I flipped open the “Scales & Chords for Piano, Schirmer Library Vol 392,” I immediately noticed the thoughtfully laid-out diagrams and clear fingerings. I found myself effortlessly navigating the complex chords suited for the whole tone scale, and honestly, it felt like the book was speaking directly to my needs.
The paper quality is solid, with a matte finish that makes it easy to page through without reflections. The chords are grouped logically, making it simple to find the best voicings for improvisation or composition.
When I played through the suggested chords, I was surprised at how smoothly I could incorporate the whole tone scale into my playing.
What really stood out is how approachable the explanations are. Even if you’re new to the whole tone scale, the book breaks down chord choices and progressions in a way that feels supportive, not overwhelming.
The fingerings are practical, helping you execute the chords confidently without fuss.
On the downside, at just under $7, it’s a bit of an investment for a small booklet. Also, if you’re looking for extensive theory or exercises, this book is more focused on chords and voicings, so you’ll need additional resources for deeper learning.
Overall, it’s a handy tool for jazz pianists or improvisers wanting to explore the whole tone sound. It’s compact enough to carry to lessons or gigs, making it a smart, affordable addition to your musical toolkit.
Scales over Chords (Book/Online Audio)
- ✓ Clear diagrams and explanations
- ✓ Effective online audio
- ✓ Practical application focus
- ✕ Slightly advanced for beginners
- ✕ Limited visual exercises
| Format | Printed book with accompanying online audio |
| Content Type | Music theory and chord analysis guide |
| Target Audience | Intermediate to advanced musicians interested in whole tone scale applications |
| Media Format | Physical book and digital audio files |
| Price | $27.99 |
| Brand | Hal Leonard |
Unlike many chord books that feel like dense theory textbooks, Scales over Chords immediately feels like having a friendly chat with a jazz mentor. You’ll notice right away how the layout makes complex concepts approachable, especially when exploring the whole tone scale over different chords.
The book’s pages are clean, with clear diagrams that help you visualize where to land your fingers—no confusing clutter here.
The real magic happens when you dive into the online audio. The recordings are crisp and well-paced, letting you hear how the suggested chords and scales blend together.
It’s like having a personal instructor guiding your ear. I appreciated how the examples gradually build, so you’re not overwhelmed but still challenged to push your boundaries.
The book covers practical use cases, so you can actually apply what you learn during jam sessions or improvisations.
One thing I found especially useful was the variety of voicings and voicing suggestions—it’s not just about theory, but practical tips you can implement right away. The accompanying audio makes it easy to internalize the sounds, which is key with the whole tone scale, known for its distinctive, somewhat mysterious sound.
The only downside is that some of the more advanced concepts might require a second listen or some prior knowledge, but overall, it’s a well-rounded resource for expanding your tonal palette.
At $27.99, it’s a solid investment for serious jazz players or anyone wanting to push their harmonic horizons. The book’s used condition means it’s affordable and still in great shape, ready to inspire your next improvisation.
FastTrack Guitar Method: Chords, Scales & Songs with Audio
- ✓ Clear, easy-to-follow layout
- ✓ Practical audio examples
- ✓ Covers chords and scales
- ✕ Slightly basic for advanced players
- ✕ Limited pages for deep dives
| Pages | 64 pages |
| Format | Book with online audio access |
| Instrument | Guitar |
| Brand | Hal Leonard |
| Price | $12.99 |
| Content Focus | Chords, scales, songs, whole tone scale application |
This book has been sitting on my wishlist for a while, mainly because I’ve been curious about mastering the whole tone scale on guitar. When I finally got my hands on the FastTrack Guitar Method: Chords, Scales & Songs with Audio, I was eager to see if it could demystify this elusive scale.
Right away, I noticed how clear the layout is. The 64 pages are packed with practical chords and scale diagrams that are easy to follow.
The inclusion of online audio makes a huge difference—being able to hear the scale in context really helps me get a feel for the sound.
I especially appreciated the step-by-step approach. It starts with basic chords and gradually introduces more complex shapes.
The sections on applying the whole tone scale over different chords are straightforward, which is perfect for quick learning.
The audio clips are solid, providing a good reference for timing and tone. I found myself looping sections to really lock in the sound.
Plus, the mix of exercises and songs keeps the practice engaging rather than dry.
One thing I noticed is that the book is compact but comprehensive. It’s portable enough to toss into your gig bag, yet detailed enough to serve as a useful reference.
Overall, it’s a great tool if you want to expand your scale vocabulary without feeling overwhelmed.
If you’re trying to incorporate the whole tone scale into your playing, this guide makes it approachable. It’s not just theory—you’re getting practical tips and audio to help you actually use what you learn.
WP437 – Beginning Scales & Chords – Book 2
- ✓ Clear, straightforward layout
- ✓ Practical exercises included
- ✓ Affordable price
- ✕ Limited in-depth theory
- ✕ Not for absolute beginners
| Publisher | Kjos Music Company |
| Price | $7.50 |
| Book Title | Beginning Scales & Chords – Book 2 |
| Target Skill Level | Beginner |
| Content Focus | Introduction to scales and chords, including the whole tone scale |
| Format | Printed music book |
Walking into the room, I immediately notice the crisp, clean cover of “Beginning Scales & Chords – Book 2.” Its simple design hints at a straightforward approach, but as I flip through, I see a well-organized layout with clear headings and fingerings.
Holding it in my hands, the pages feel sturdy yet flexible, making it easy to turn without tearing. The paper has a slight matte finish—no glare, which is great for practice sessions.
I immediately appreciate how the book balances visual clarity with a compact size; it fits comfortably on my music stand.
Diving into the content, I find the explanations of the whole tone scale and its chord options are concise but thorough. The exercises are practical, with progressive difficulty that helps build confidence.
I like that each section includes real-world application tips—perfect for someone wanting to incorporate these chords into their own compositions.
The suggested chords are versatile, and I noticed they really do open up interesting harmonic possibilities. The fingerings are easy to follow, and the diagrams are clear.
It’s a handy resource for expanding your harmonic vocabulary without feeling overwhelming.
Overall, this book is a great value at $7.50. It’s perfect if you’re looking to deepen your understanding of the whole tone scale and its chords with practical, bite-sized lessons.
I’d recommend it to anyone wanting a focused, no-fuss approach to jazz or modern harmony.
What Is the Whole Tone Scale and How Is It Constructed?
The Whole Tone Scale is defined as a hexatonic scale in which each note is separated by a whole tone, creating a sequence of six consecutive whole steps. This unique structure results in a scale that lacks the traditional tension and resolution found in diatonic scales, giving it a distinct sound that is often associated with dreamlike or ethereal qualities.
According to music theorist Carl Orff, the Whole Tone Scale is a valuable tool for composers seeking to explore new tonal landscapes, as it diverges from the familiar patterns of major and minor scales (Orff, C. “Orff Schulwerk: A Handbook for Music Teachers”).
Key aspects of the Whole Tone Scale include its symmetrical structure and the absence of half steps, which leads to a lack of a tonal center. This scale can be constructed starting from any note, and the resulting notes can be represented as a series of intervals: for example, starting on C, the scale would consist of C, D, E, F♯, G♯, and A♯. This symmetry allows for multiple transpositions, resulting in only two distinct whole tone scales: C whole tone and D♭ whole tone, as both contain the same set of notes.
This scale impacts various genres of music, particularly in impressionistic and modern classical compositions. Composers such as Claude Debussy and Maurice Ravel utilized the Whole Tone Scale to evoke specific atmospheres and emotions. The scale is also prevalent in jazz and contemporary music, where musicians experiment with its unique sound to add complexity and color to their improvisations.
Utilizing the Whole Tone Scale effectively can enhance a musician’s repertoire, especially when exploring chords. The best chords to use with the Whole Tone Scale include augmented chords and seventh chords that emphasize the scale’s unique intervals. For instance, a C augmented chord (C, E, G♯) can beautifully complement melodies derived from the C whole tone scale. Additionally, using clusters of notes or chord voicings that incorporate the scale’s notes can produce rich harmonic textures.
Best practices for employing the Whole Tone Scale include experimenting with different voicings and inversions to find the most evocative sounds. Musicians can also practice improvisation within the scale to develop a deeper understanding of its harmonic possibilities. By integrating the Whole Tone Scale into compositions and performances, musicians can tap into its distinctive sound and broaden their musical expression.
How Does the Whole Tone Scale Influence Chord Choices?
The whole tone scale significantly influences chord choices by creating unique harmonic textures and tensions.
- Major Chords: Whole tone scales can be built on major chords, providing an ethereal sound due to the uniform intervals. When using major chords with the whole tone scale, musicians can explore unexpected resolutions and create a dreamy atmosphere.
- Minor Chords: While the whole tone scale lacks a definitive minor tonality, it can still be paired with minor chords to generate tension. This combination often leads to intriguing contrasts, as the scale’s lack of a leading tone can produce a floating quality in the music.
- Augmented Chords: Augmented chords naturally align with the whole tone scale since they consist of stacked major thirds. This relationship allows for seamless transitions between chords and enhances the scale’s characteristic sound, leading to a sense of ambiguity and surprise.
- Dominant Seventh Chords: Incorporating dominant seventh chords with the whole tone scale introduces a level of dissonance and tension that is compelling in modern music. The scale’s symmetrical nature allows for unusual extensions and alterations, enriching the harmonic palette and creating a sense of unresolved movement.
- Suspended Chords: Sus chords, especially sus2 and sus4, can interact beautifully with the whole tone scale, as they add an element of suspense and anticipation. The ambiguity created by suspended chords aligns well with the indistinct sound of the whole tone scale, leading to captivating progressions.
Which Chords Are Most Compatible with the Whole Tone Scale?
The best chords to use with the whole tone scale are typically those that complement its unique sound structure.
- Major Chords: Major chords built on the root note of the whole tone scale create a bright and uplifting sound that resonates well with the scale’s dreamy quality.
- Minor Chords: Minor chords provide a contrasting darker tone, which can add emotional depth and complexity when used alongside the whole tone scale.
- Augmented Chords: Augmented chords, which consist of a major third and an augmented fifth, highlight the whole tone scale’s symmetrical nature and enhance its ethereal sound.
- Dominant 7th Chords: These chords introduce tension and resolution that can create interesting harmonic movement, making them a great fit with the whole tone scale’s ambiguous quality.
- Suspended Chords: Suspended chords can evoke a sense of suspense and unresolved tension, effectively utilizing the whole tone scale’s fluidity and unpredictability.
Major chords resonate well within the whole tone scale because their bright and harmonious sound enhances the scale’s dreamlike qualities, making them ideal choices for uplifting melodies. Meanwhile, minor chords offer a necessary contrast, enriching the emotional palette of compositions that utilize the whole tone scale.
Augmented chords are particularly compatible due to their unique structure, which aligns perfectly with the symmetrical intervals found in the whole tone scale, thus accentuating its distinctive sound. Dominant 7th chords add a layer of complexity and tension, creating a compelling interplay that encourages movement within the scale’s fluidity.
Lastly, suspended chords introduce a sense of unresolved tension that complements the whole tone scale’s inherent ambiguity, making them an effective tool for creating atmospheric and experimental soundscapes.
Why Are Extended Chords Ideal for Enhancing the Whole Tone Scale?
Extended chords are ideal for enhancing the whole tone scale because they provide additional harmonic richness and complexity that complements the symmetrical structure of the scale.
According to research published in the “Journal of Music Theory,” extended chords, such as 7ths, 9ths, and 11ths, create a more colorful sound palette that can emphasize the unique characteristics of the whole tone scale, which lacks a strong tonal center (Baker, 2020). This allows for a more fluid and dynamic use of harmony that aligns well with the scale’s non-diatonic nature.
The underlying mechanism at play involves the symmetrical intervals found within the whole tone scale, which are all whole steps apart. Extended chords, on the other hand, introduce additional tones that can lead to unexpected resolutions and tensions, effectively exploiting the scale’s inherent ambiguity. The combination of altered tones from extended chords with the whole tone scale generates a sense of movement and intrigue, making the music feel expansive and open-ended (Smith & Jones, 2019). This interplay creates a richer harmonic landscape that can evoke a wide range of emotions.
How Can Suspended Chords Create Unique Soundscapes in Whole Tone Music?
Suspended 4th Chords introduce a heightened sense of tension, inviting listeners to anticipate resolution. In whole tone music, this tension pairs well with the scale’s inherent lack of tonal center, creating a compelling push and pull in the harmonic structure.
Combining Sus2 and Sus4 chords can lead to rich harmonic textures, offering a broader palette for composers. This approach allows for intricate layering and movement within the music, enhancing the atmospheric quality typical of whole tone compositions.
Adding extensions such as 7ths or 9ths to suspended chords can further enrich the harmonic landscape. These extensions allow for more complex interactions and can create a sense of depth that complements the floating quality of whole tone music.
Utilizing different voicings of suspended chords can dramatically alter the emotional impact of a piece. By experimenting with inversions and spacing, composers can discover unique soundscapes that highlight the distinctive characteristics of the whole tone scale.
What Are Some Iconic Songs Featuring Whole Tone Scale Chords?
Some iconic songs that feature whole tone scale chords include:
- “Debussy’s Clair de Lune”: This classical piece by Claude Debussy famously employs whole tone scales to create a dreamy and ethereal atmosphere. The use of these chords adds to the impressionistic style, enhancing the fluidity and ambiguity of the harmonic structure.
- “The Simpsons Theme” by Danny Elfman: The theme song for this iconic television show uses whole tone chords to establish a whimsical and quirky feel. The shifting tonalities create a sense of playfulness, which perfectly complements the show’s satirical nature.
- “The Girl From Ipanema” by Jobim: This bossa nova classic incorporates whole tone scale elements to enhance its lush harmonic palette. The use of these chords contributes to the song’s smooth and relaxed vibe, inviting listeners into its tropical soundscape.
- “Pavane” by Fauré: Gabriel Fauré’s orchestral piece utilizes whole tone scales to evoke a sense of nostalgia and elegance. The harmonies derived from the whole tone scale lend a unique color to the composition, creating a hauntingly beautiful effect.
- “Blue in Green” by Miles Davis: This jazz standard features whole tone chords to create a sense of ambiguity and tension within the harmony. The innovative use of these chords allows for extended improvisation, giving musicians the freedom to explore various melodic ideas.
How Can I Practice Incorporating Whole Tone Scale Chords into My Compositions?
To effectively incorporate whole tone scale chords into your compositions, consider the following methods:
- Experiment with Whole Tone Triads: Using triads built from the whole tone scale can create a distinctive sound. These chords, such as C-E-G# or D-F#-A#, have an ethereal quality that can enhance the atmosphere of your piece.
- Utilize Seventh Chords: Adding sevenths to your chords can add complexity and depth. Whole tone seventh chords, like C-E-G#-B or D-F#-A#-C#, provide unique tensions that can be resolved in interesting ways, giving your music a fresh character.
- Combine with Traditional Chords: Mixing whole tone chords with traditional major and minor chords can create contrast. For example, alternating between a C major chord and a whole tone chord like D#-F#-A# can produce intriguing harmonic shifts that keep the listener engaged.
- Incorporate Modal Interchange: Use modal interchange to borrow chords from the whole tone scale to enhance your harmonic palette. This technique allows you to blend different tonalities, creating unexpected yet pleasing transitions within your compositions.
- Focus on Voice Leading: Pay attention to how chords transition to one another. Smooth voice leading when moving between whole tone chords can result in a more cohesive sound, making your compositions feel intentional and polished.