ABSTRACT
Scales are used to generate melodies and harmonies. Although there are many different kinds of scales, the diatonic major and minor scales form the basis of tonal music. The minor scale is more complicated than major because two of its scale degrees are variable. The ascending leg of the scale features raised and the descending form features the lowered and. Some scale degrees have melodic tendencies—they tend to move in a certain direction to a specific scale degree. The minor scale is more complicated than major because two of its scale degrees are variable. When a melody note moves to an adjacent scale degree, as when moves either down to or up to, the melodic motion is conjunct, or stepwise. Melodies often end in a stepwise, descending manner, as if gravity pulls the melody down to rest on. Many melodies begin on or, move among various scale degrees, and ultimately settle on.
