Which genre of music often utilizes the whole tone scale?

The whole tone scale is predominantly found in classical music, particularly in the works of composers like Claude Debussy. This scale consists of six notes that are spaced a whole step apart, creating a distinct sound characterized by an ambiguous tonality and a dreamy quality. The use of this scale allows composers to evoke specific atmospheres and emotions that are integral to the impressionistic style, which emphasizes color and texture over traditional harmonic structure.

In classical music, the whole tone scale can be effectively utilized to explore themes or ideas that deviate from the standard major and minor scales, enhancing the expressiveness of the piece. While jazz, pop music, and heavy metal might occasionally employ the whole tone scale for particular effects or improvisation, it is most prominently associated with classical compositions where the scale is used more systematically and conceptually. This is why classical music is the correct association with the whole tone scale in this context.