What is the mediant in a musical scale?

In a musical scale, the mediant is the third degree of the scale. In both major and minor scales, it serves a crucial role in establishing harmony and contributing to the overall sound of the piece. For instance, in a C major scale, the notes are C, D, E, F, G, A, B, with E representing the mediant. This note is important for creating triads and chords, such as the tonic triad (C, E, G), where the mediant helps define the character and feel of the harmony. Understanding the mediant aids musicians in constructing melodies and harmonies effectively, as it provides a foundation for building essential chords.

The other options do not correctly represent the mediant; the first tone is known as the tonic, the second tone is referred to as the supertonic, and the fourth tone is termed the subdominant. Each of these degrees has its own function and significance in musical theory, distinct from that of the mediant.