Question 1

What is a musical mode?

Accepted Answer

A mode is a scale starting from a specific degree of the major scale. The seven major modes are: Ionian, Dorian, Phrygian, Lydian, Mixolydian, Aeolian and Locrian.

Question 2

How are modes different from scales?

Accepted Answer

Technically, a mode is a type of scale. The difference is emphasis: modes highlight a characteristic tone and a specific sound when rooted on a particular tonic.

Question 3

How do I use modes in improvisation?

Accepted Answer

Play the mode that matches the chord in the progression. For example, over Am7 use Dorian, over Dm7 use Phrygian. This gives more precise harmonic targeting than simply using the major scale.

Chords & Arpeggios

Scales & Modes

Harmony & Theory

Tools & Practice

G Modes

Frequently Asked Questions

G Modes

Frequently Asked Questions