Dorian Mode

1-2-b3-4-5-6-b7

The "Dorian Mode" is a musical mode in Western music, belonging to the seven church modes. It is often recognized for its distinct minor sound with a major sixth.

In the Dorian mode, each note is assigned a specific degree within the scale, following the pattern: whole, half, whole, whole, whole, half, whole (1-2-b3-4-5-6-b7). For example, in the key of C Dorian, the corresponding note names and pitches are: C (root), D (second), E♭ (minor third), F (fourth), G (fifth), A (major sixth), B♭ (minor seventh), and C (octave).

What sets the Dorian mode apart is its minor quality but with a unique characteristic: the raised sixth degree compared to the natural minor scale. This raised sixth imparts a brighter and more optimistic vibe to the mode. The Dorian mode is often associated with jazz, funk, and Latin music, and it has been used by artists to create melodies and chord progressions with a slightly jazzy or soulful feel.

Example of Dorian Mode

Songs that use the Dorian mode

Common Related Scales

TonalitySolfège
MajorDo Re Mi Fa So La Ti Do
Harmonic Minor
La Ti Do Re Mi Fa Si(#) La
Melodic Minor (A)La Ti Do Re Mi Fi(#) Si(#) La
Melodic Minor (D)La So Fa Mi Re Do Ti La
Natural Minor
La Ti Do Re Mi Fa So La
Pentatonic
Do Re Mi So La