DIATONIC Meaning and
Definition
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Diatonic is an adjective used to describe a musical scale, chord progression, or melody that is based on the principles of the diatonic system. The diatonic system is derived from the Greek word "diatonikos," meaning "through the tones."
In music theory, diatonic refers to the specific arrangement of intervals within a scale or key. A diatonic scale consists of seven notes, with a consistent pattern of whole and half steps between each successive note. This pattern typically follows the sequence of whole, whole, half, whole, whole, whole, half steps. The most common diatonic scale is the major scale, which forms the basis for much of Western music.
A diatonic chord progression refers to a sequence of chords that are derived from the notes of a diatonic scale. This typically involves using the triads (three-note chords) formed from each degree of the scale to create harmonically pleasing progressions.
Diatonic melodies are those that primarily follow the notes of a given diatonic scale or key. These melodies often inherently sound natural and pleasing to the ear due to the consonant relationships between the notes.
Overall, the term diatonic encompasses the foundational principles of Western tonal music, emphasizing the organization and relationships between notes within a scale or key. It signifies a harmonically and melodically accessible system that has shaped much of the music we hear today.
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In music, in the ordinary scale; by tones and semitones.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Common Misspellings for DIATONIC
Etymology of DIATONIC
The word "diatonic" comes from the Greek word "diatonikos" which means "proceeding by tones". It is derived from the Greek words "dia" meaning "through" or "across" and "tonos" meaning "tone". The term was first used in ancient Greek music theory to describe a particular scale that spanned two octaves, consisting of whole tones and half tones. Over time, "diatonic" has evolved to refer to any musical system, scale, or chord progression that is based on the principle of using only the seven notes within a diatonic scale.
Similar spelling words for DIATONIC
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