Modes
This lesson introduces licks that specifically use the modal system. A mode is a type of scale that is particularly useful for improvising or composing melodies over chord progressions. These modes were first used in ancient Greece and have been widely used throughout history in all types of music. The first thing to understand with modes is that they are derived from the major scale. The names of the seven modes and their relationship to the major scale are shown here.
The Ionian Mode
The Ionian mode is another name for the major scale. This is best illustrated by looking at the basic C major scale in the open position. It is also important to consider the order of the tones (T) and semitones (S).
The Dorian Mode
The Dorian mode is constructed by starting and finishing on the second note of the major scale. This is shown in the example, which begins with the second note of the C major scale (D) and finishes one octave higher. The tone and semitone order is therefore displaced one step.
The Phrygian Mode
The Phrygian mode is constructed by starting and finishing on the third note of the major scale, the note E in the given example. The tone and semitone order is once again displaced by one step.
The Lydian Mode
The Lydian mode is constructed by starting and finishing on the fourth note of the major scale, the note F in the given example. The tone and semitone order is once again displaced by one step.
The Mixolydian Mode
The Mixolydian mode is constructed by starting and finishing on the fifth note of the major scale, the note G in the given example. The tone and semitone order is once again displaced by one step.
The Aeolian Mode
The Aeolian mode is constructed by starting and finishing on the sixth note of the major scale, the note A in the given example. This mode is the same as the natural minor scale. The tone and semitone order is once again displaced by one step.
The Locrian Mode
The Locrian mode is constructed by starting and finishing on the seventh note of the major scale, the note B in the given example. The tone and semitone order is once again displaced by one step.
