Scales: Ways to Know a Scale: Modes

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Every scale has as many Modes as it has notes…

Each mode uses the exact same notes in the parent scale but uses a different starting note.


Here, for example, are the seven Modes of the Bb Major Scale

Ionian (1st) Mode…

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Dorian (2nd) Mode…

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Phrygian (3rd) Mode…

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Lydian (4th) Mode…

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Mixolydian (5th) Mode…

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Aeolian (6th) Mode…

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Locrian (7th) Mode…

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Don’t feel overwhelmed by all this. While knowing the names of each mode might be useful for getting good grades on a music theory test, the important thing is to realize at this point is that you can play a scale starting on any of its notes.

Also, don’t try to memorize the sequence of half-steps and whole steps for each mode. Simply learn each one directly by its visio-spatial layout on the keyboard.

By the way, such knowledge and skill helps us to organize our musical thoughts and prepares the way for fluent improvisation.

learn more… Scales