Which of the following scale degrees stays the same when changing from a major to minor scale? (1 point) Responses
third
seventh
fifth
sixth
fifth
The scale degree that stays the same when changing from a major to minor scale is the fifth (5th).
To determine which scale degree stays the same when changing from a major to a minor scale, we need to understand the difference between these two scales.
In a major scale, the pattern of whole steps and half steps is as follows: whole step, whole step, half step, whole step, whole step, whole step, half step. The major scale has a bright and happy sound.
In a natural minor scale, the pattern of whole steps and half steps is slightly different: whole step, half step, whole step, whole step, half step, whole step, whole step. The natural minor scale has a more somber and melancholic sound.
Now, let's go through each of the given options to see which scale degree stays the same when changing from major to minor:
1. The third scale degree: In a major scale, the third scale degree is a major third interval above the tonic. However, in a minor scale, the third scale degree becomes a minor third interval above the tonic. Therefore, the third scale degree changes when moving from major to minor.
2. The seventh scale degree: In a major scale, the seventh scale degree is a major seventh interval above the tonic. In a natural minor scale, the seventh scale degree also becomes a minor seventh interval above the tonic. Therefore, the seventh scale degree remains the same when changing from major to minor.
3. The fifth scale degree: In a major scale, the fifth scale degree is a perfect fifth interval above the tonic. Similarly, in a natural minor scale, the fifth scale degree is also a perfect fifth interval above the tonic. Therefore, the fifth scale degree remains the same when changing from major to minor.
4. The sixth scale degree: In a major scale, the sixth scale degree is a major sixth interval above the tonic. However, in a natural minor scale, the sixth scale degree becomes a minor sixth interval above the tonic. Therefore, the sixth scale degree changes when moving from major to minor.
So, based on this analysis, the scale degree that stays the same when changing from a major to a minor scale is the seventh scale degree.