B Whole Tone
Bass scale — fretboard diagramIntermediate
B Whole Tone Scale — Notes and Intervals
The B Whole Tone scale, also known as Messiaen's Mode of Limited Transposition #1, is a perfectly symmetrical scale that lacks a tonal center, creating a sense of weightlessness and blur. On Bass, it contains the notes B, C#, D#, F, G, A. It divides the octave into six equal whole steps, meaning only two unique whole tone scales exist. Popularized by Claude Debussy and used extensively in film scores, it evokes impressionistic, dreamlike atmospheres where no single note feels like home. Use it over augmented triads and 7#5 chords for a floating, surreal effect. Commonly used in Impressionist, Film Scores, Jazz, Ambient, Experimental. Notable players include Claude Debussy, Thelonious Monk, Wayne Shorter, Joe Satriani. Use over augmented triads, 7#5 chords. Perfect for dream sequences, transitions, and any moment where tonality should dissolve.
Notes: B, C#, D#, F, G, A
Intervals: 1P, 2M, 3M, 4A, 5A, 6A
Degrees: 1 2 3 #4 #5 #6
Formula: W-W-W-W-W-W
Number of notes: 6
Also known as: messiaen's mode #1, Messiaen's Mode #1
Musical Character
Divides the octave into 6 equal whole steps — no half steps means no tension, no resolution, no tonal center. Only 2 possible whole tone scales exist (starting on C or C#).
Genres & Notable Artists
Genres: Impressionist, Film Scores, Jazz, Ambient, Experimental
Notable players: Claude Debussy, Thelonious Monk, Wayne Shorter, Joe Satriani
How to Use the B Whole Tone Scale
Use over augmented triads, 7#5 chords. Perfect for dream sequences, transitions, and any moment where tonality should dissolve.
Origin & Background
Popularized by Claude Debussy in the late 19th century. Also known as Messiaen's Mode of Limited Transposition #1.
Related Scales
Chord Progressions Using This Scale
- I – I+ – I6 – I7 (Ascending Augmented)Classical / Pop — Hopeful & Yearning
The B Whole Tone scale contains 6 notes (B, C#, D#, F, G, A). Use the interactive fretboard above to explore this scale on Bass with different tunings and fret ranges.