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Harmony The simultaneous combination of notes and the ensuing relationships of intervals and chords. Chord Simultaneous combination of three or more tones that constitute a single block of harmony. Scale Series of tones in ascending or descending order; may present the notes of a key. Octave Interval between two tones seven diatonic pitches apart; the lower note vibrates half as fast as the upper and sounds an octave lower Triad Common chord type, consisting in three pitches built on alternate tones of the scale (e.g. steps 1-2-3 or do-mi-sol). Tonic The first note of a scale or key, do. Also called "keynote". Tonality Principle of organization around a tonic, or home pitch, based on a major or minor scale. Dissonance Combination of tones that sounds discordant and unstable, in need of resolution. Consonance Concordant or harmonious combination of tones that provides a sense of relaxation and stability in music. Major Scale Scale consisting of seven different tones that comprise a specific pattern of whole and half steps. It differs from a minor scale primarily in that its third degree is raised half a step. Minor Scale Scale consisting of seven different tones that comprise a specific pattern of whole and half steps. It differs from a major scale in that its third degree is lowered half a step. Diatonic Scale Melody or harmony built from the seven tones of a major or minor scale. A diatonic scale encompasses patterns of seven whole tones and semitones. Chromatic Scale Scale consisting of a ascending or descending sequence of semitones. Drone Sustained sounding of one or several tones for harmonic support, a common feature of some folk musics. Chromatic Melody or harmony built from many if not all twelve semitones of the octave.