What is the name of scale degree 6 in a musical scale?

The name of scale degree 6 in a musical scale is the submediant. In the context of diatonic scales, each degree has a specific name based on its position relative to the tonic (the first degree of the scale). The submediant is located three scale degrees below the tonic and serves as an important point in harmony and tonal structure.

Understanding the function of the submediant is essential in music theory, as it often plays a role in the progression of chords and melodies. For example, when moving from the submediant to dominant (which is the fifth scale degree), or to the tonic, it creates different emotional effects and resolutions in a piece of music.

The other terms refer to different scale degrees. The tonic, for example, is the first degree of the scale and represents the home or base note. The dominant is the fifth degree, marking a strong point of tension that typically resolves back to the tonic. The subdominant is the fourth degree, often providing foundational harmonic support. Each of these degree names has its own characteristics, roles, and emotional qualities within musical composition.