Like the Ionian mode, the Dorian mode can be played in five different forms which cover the fretboard (C, A, G, E and D). The fingerings for the Dorian mode are the same as those of the Ionian mode, except that the root notes are in a different position. As with all scales, the positions of the root notes determines the name of each form. The following examples show the five forms of C Dorian.
Open Position C Form
A Form
G Form
E Form
D Form
Moveable C Form
Here is a solo derived from the D Dorian mode. There are only two chords here – Dm and G. These can be analysed as 1 and 4 in the key of D minor. The dorian mode can be used for improvising over any progression in a minor key where chord 4 is Major, or Dominant.