About Scale Degree Names
Every note in a scale has a technical name that describes its function: Tonic (1), Supertonic (2), Mediant (3), Subdominant (4), Dominant (5), Submediant (6), and either Leading Tone or Subtonic (7). These names come from 18th-century music theory and convey harmonic function, not just position.
Leading Tone vs. Subtonic
The 7th degree has two names depending on its distance from the tonic. The Leading Tone is a half step below tonic and "leads" strongly to resolution (found in major keys and harmonic minor). The Subtonic is a whole step below tonic with less pull (found in natural minor and Mixolydian mode).
How to Practice
Use "Note → Name" mode to identify the technical name when you see a note on the staff. Use "Name → Note" mode to spell out which note is the Subdominant, Dominant, etc. in a given key. Practice in both major and minor keys to master the Leading Tone/Subtonic distinction.
Why Learn These Names?
Technical names communicate harmonic function instantly. "Dominant" tells you the chord creates tension toward tonic. "Subdominant" indicates pre-dominant function. Understanding these names deepens your analysis and helps you communicate with other musicians using shared vocabulary.