ABSTRACT
Module 9a: The Chromatic Scale and Surface Chromaticism Chromatic tones are pitches that are not a part of the major or minor scale for the prevailing key. Chromaticism “fills in” the spaces between diatonic scale degrees, adds musical color and direction to melodies, and serves as the foundation for altered chords, tonicization, and modulation. The chromatic scale consists of twelve pitches, each roughly the same distance from the pitches around them.
