Which scale degree is referred to as the tonic?

The tonic is the first degree of a scale and serves as the primary note around which a piece of music is centered. It establishes the key of the piece and provides a sense of resolution and stability. In a major scale, the tonic is the note that is associated with the scale's name and serves as the home base for melody and harmony. For example, in the C major scale, the tonic is C, while in the G major scale, the tonic is G.

This foundational concept of the tonic is crucial for understanding musical structure and function, as it influences chord progressions and melodic phrases throughout a composition. Recognizing the tonic helps musicians and listeners alike identify the key of a piece and follow its harmonic movement.