The Modes of the Major Scale

We will be looking at the following Modes of the C Major Scale (in

treble Clef)

You can think of the modes as

1) Starting at different point of the parent scale in this case C
Major
2) A way of creating interesting melodic phrases and lines as
each mode contains slight variations from the parent Major &
natural minor scales
Understanding the subtle differences within each mode will free up
and create some interesting melodic ideas for your playing. It will
also help identifying modal sequences and chords and help in
applying the appropriate mode.
1) The Ionian Mode (Major Scale)

This is the parent scale and obviously a good place to start.

The shape and sound dictate Major harmony contain all Major
intervalsLovely!
2) The Dorian Mode
Commonly used scale especially in funk (Just think Good times
chic and there you have it) a minor scale with Major 6th create the
Dorian modal sound. Commonly used as the II chord (when
playing over a II V I sequence) Dm7 G7 CMaj7
3) The Phrygian Mode
Very Interesting sounding minor scale similar to the Aeolian or
natural minor however with the addition the b2/9 some say it
creates some interesting tension and almost some would say a
Middle Eastern sound.
4) The Lydian Mode
An interesting twist on the parent Major scale with the addition
of raised 4th .It can be superimposed over Most Major 7 chords
and is great way to create a little tension over a Major tonality,
but use with discretion

5) The Mixolydian Mode

Classic sounding Major scale but with the addition of a b7th
degree. Really useful for The Blues, Funk, Rock and roll and so
much more
6) The Aeolian Mode
The Classic sounding minor scale and the parent scale for all
other diatonic minor scales its flavour lies in the b3 b6 b7. Very
useful.
7) The Locrian Mode
A minor scale with with interesting changes (almost a hybrid
Phrygian/Aeolian scale with the addition of the b5 interval. It can be
used over a D-7b5. Very dark and cool sounding scale, Ive heard some
people say it is used in metal music but Id prefer to believe that its
just a really cool sounding minor scale with additional tension (based
around the b5 interval)
By understanding the subtle differences between each mode you will
be able
1) Create new harmonic & melodic ideas by
2) Identify modal sequences and applying the appropriate sounding
scale

It is imperative that you learn the modal name,its characteristics (The

intervals that create its unique sound) and be aware of the Modal
sequence and chord that are associated with the mode
The Scale chart below contains information regarding the modes and
also some some additional chord and scale information. You will need
to study this at great length.