whole tone scale explained
A symmetrical scale built entirely from whole steps, dividing the octave into six equal parts
In Depth
The whole tone scale contains six notes, each a whole step apart, with no semitones. There are only two distinct whole tone scales (starting on C and starting on C♯), and every note in each scale can function as the root. This symmetry means the scale has no tonal centre, no leading tone, and no dominant — creating a floating, dreamlike quality. Debussy used it extensively to evoke shimmering water, mist, and ethereal atmospheres. The augmented triad is the only triad that can be built from whole tone scale notes.
Debussy's Voiles, from his first book of Préludes, is almost entirely in the whole tone scale, creating an impression of sailboats drifting in haze.