MusicianCV · TR

Common-tone scale change

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Scale families and changes

Common-tone scale change · C Ionian → C Lydian → F → F♯

Play the notes against a pedal. Degree 1 is the centre. Altered degrees are measured against the major scale on that centre.

Example

Pitch material / distinctive motion · C Ionian → C Lydian / F → F♯

Pitch material / distinctive motion

C Ionian → C Lydian F → F♯

Try it

How do you emphasise the colour while keeping the centre clear?

AnswerFeature the characteristic pitch in a short phrase, then return to the pedal. Repeat over a different bass to hear the contrast.

Related topics

Five-note scales: pentatonic

References

Music Theory for the 21st-Century Classroom · Further reading

Subject-expert review pending.