Understanding Scales and Modes

What are Scales?

Scales are a series of notes within an octave, arranged in a specific order. They are the building blocks of music and determine the tonal framework for a piece. The most common scales are the Major and Minor scales, but there are many others, including the Pentatonic and Blues scales.

What are Modes?

Modes are variations of scales that emphasize different notes within the scale. They are derived from the Major scale and each mode has its own unique sound and character. The seven main modes are Ionian, Dorian, Phrygian, Lydian, Mixolydian, Aeolian, and Locrian.

Ionian Mode

The Ionian mode is the same as the Major scale. It has a bright and happy sound. For example, the C Ionian mode consists of the notes C, D, E, F, G, A, B, C.

Dorian Mode

The Dorian mode has a minor feel with a raised sixth. It is often described as having a "jazzy" sound. For example, the D Dorian mode consists of the notes D, E, F, G, A, B, C, D.

Phrygian Mode

The Phrygian mode has a very exotic and mysterious sound due to its lowered second and sixth notes. For example, the E Phrygian mode consists of the notes E, F, G, A, B, C, D, E.

Lydian Mode

The Lydian mode is similar to the Major scale but with a raised fourth. It has a dreamy and ethereal quality. For example, the F Lydian mode consists of the notes F, G, A, B, C, D, E, F.

Mixolydian Mode

The Mixolydian mode has a Major feel but with a lowered seventh. It is commonly used in blues and rock music. For example, the G Mixolydian mode consists of the notes G, A, B, C, D, E, F, G.

Aeolian Mode

The Aeolian mode is the same as the Natural Minor scale. It has a sad and melancholic sound. For example, the A Aeolian mode consists of the notes A, B, C, D, E, F, G, A.

Locrian Mode

The Locrian mode has a very unstable and tense sound due to its lowered second and fifth notes. It is rarely used in traditional music. For example, the B Locrian mode consists of the notes B, C, D, E, F, G, A, B.

Examples and Analogies

Imagine each mode as a different character in a story. The Ionian mode is the hero, bright and confident. The Dorian mode is the wise mentor, jazzy and cool. The Phrygian mode is the mysterious stranger, exotic and intriguing. The Lydian mode is the dreamer, ethereal and imaginative. The Mixolydian mode is the rock star, bold and rebellious. The Aeolian mode is the tragic figure, sad and reflective. The Locrian mode is the villain, unstable and tense.

Practical Application

To practice scales and modes, start by playing each mode in a single key, such as C. Notice how each mode sounds different and try to identify the unique characteristics. Then, experiment with playing melodies and chords using different modes to create different moods and emotions in your music.