The Dorian mode is a fascinating musical scale that strikes a balance between melancholy and brightness. Characterized by its minor tonality with a distinctive raised sixth, this mode has been a favorite among jazz improvisers, folk musicians and classical composers alike. Whether you’re exploring music theory or improving your piano skills, understanding the Dorian mode can open new doors for creativity.
What is the Dorian mode? In this article we will unravel the essence of the Dorian mode, break down its structure and show you how to incorporate it into your piano practice.
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What is the Dorian mode?
The Dorian mode is one of seven musical modes found in a major scale, rooted in ancient Greek music theory, has evolved over centuries from its origins as a modal scale to a staple of medieval Gregorian chants. Unlike the Ionian mode’s major scale identity, the Dorian mode retains its unique character, blending minor tonality with a raised sixth.
This balance of darkness and brightness makes it highly versatile, adapting seamlessly to jazz, folk, and other genres, where its distinct sound continues to captivate musicians and audiences alike.
A Dorian scale is defined by its interval pattern:
W-H-W-W-W-H-W
(H = Half Step, W = Whole Step)
This sequence of intervals creates the sound that gives the mode its character; it can be thought of as the Dorian mode formula.
For example, starting on D, the Dorian mode comprises these notes:
D-E-F-G-A-B-C-D
Here’s what makes the Dorian mode unique:
- The minor third gives it a minor scale quality.
- The raised sixth adds a subtle brightness and openness, distinguishing it from the natural minor scale.
Compare this to the D natural minor scale (D-E-F-G-A-Bb-C-D), and you’ll notice the B in the Dorian mode is natural instead of flattened.
Dorian mode scales
The Dorian mode can begin on any of the twelve chromatic notes. Each starting note produces a new key, while the interval pattern remains consistent. Here’s a table showcasing the Dorian modes in all 12 keys:
| Mode | Notes |
| C | C – D – Eb – F – G – A – Bb – C |
| C♯/D♭ | C# – D# – E – F# – G# – A# – B – C# |
| D | D – E – F – G – A – B – C – D |
| D♯/E♭ | D# – E# – F# – G# – A# – B# – C# – D# |
| E | E – F# – G – A – B – C# – D – E |
| F | F – G – Ab – Bb – C – D – Eb – F |
| F♯/G♭ | F# – G# – A – B – C# – D# – E – F# |
| G | G – A – Bb – C – D – E – F – G |
| G♯/A♭ | G# – A# – B – C# – D# – E – F# – G# |
| A | A – B – C – D – E – F# – G – A |
| A♯/B♭ | A# – B# – C# – D# – E# – F# – G# – A# |
| B | B – C# – D – E – F# – G# – A – B |
This consistency in interval structure allows you to transpose the Dorian mode to any key with ease.
The Dorian mode and scale degrees
Diatonic modes of the major scale, such as Dorian, can be formed by playing a major scale from a specific degree. The Dorian mode is formed by playing from the second degree. Let’s break this down:
- Start with a major scale: For example, in C major (C Ionian), the notes are: C, D, E, F, G, A, B, C.
- Begin on the second note: Start on D instead of C.
- Play the same sequence notes as the major scale starting on the second degree: In this case, D, E, F, G, A, B, C, D.
Now you have constructed the D Dorian mode from the second degree of a major scale. Well done!
This process works for any key, try forming some more examples of the Dorian scale and check them against the table we just looked at.
How to play the Dorian mode on piano?
As with any of the piano scales you may have practiced, mastering the Dorian mode on the piano opens up a world of expressive possibilities. Its distinctive minor feel with a raised sixth makes it perfect for crafting soulful melodies and intriguing improvisations.
In this section, we’ll break down the steps to play the Dorian mode, starting with basic fingerings and progressing to advanced techniques that will enhance your practice routine.
Start with D Dorian (D minor scale with a raised sixth):
- Place your right-hand thumb (finger 1) on D.
- Use this finger pattern: 1 (D), 2 (E), 3 (F), thumb under to 1 (G), 2 (A), 3 (B), 4 (C), and 5 (D).
- Reverse the motion to descend back to the starting note.
Practice with the left hand:
- Start with your pinky (finger 5) on low D.
- Use this pattern: 5 (D), 4 (E), 3 (F), 2 (G), thumb (1) on A, cross over with 3 (B), 2 (C), and 1 (D).
- Ascend and descend until it feels natural.
Move to other keys:
- Try C Dorian (C-D-Eb-F-G-A-Bb-C) or G Dorian (G-A-Bb-C-D-E-F-G).
- Adjust fingerings as needed for sharps or flats.
Once you’ve mastered the basics:
- Explore the experiment with rhythms like triplets or syncopation.
- Experiment with playing softly (piano) and loudly (forte) for expressive control.
- Create simple melodies over a Dorian chord progression.
Apps like Skoove can help your practice by offering interactive lessons and exercises tailored to your level. Whether you’re mastering scales or looking for how to play piano for beginners, Skoove provides real-time feedback, helping you refine your technique and deepen your understanding.
Top 3 songs to play with Dorian mode
Here are three great songs you can learn with Skoove to dive into the unique character of Dorian music while improving your piano skills!
1. Scarborough Fair
This Traditional song makes great use of Dorian’s major sixth for an interesting and memorable folk style melody.
2. Autumn Leaves – Joseph Kosma
This tune makes use of various iterations of minor scales and through improvisation is a great tune to impediment some Dorian melodies.
3. All the Things You Are – Frank Sinatra
Much like the previous example this tune is a great way to familiarise yourself with the Dorian mode. The various keys this tune cycles through will allow you to get to gips playing and experimenting with the Dorian mode in multiple keys.
Conclusion
The Dorian mode, with its minor feel and raised sixth, is a staple in jazz, folk, and classical music. Its versatility makes it invaluable for improvisation and music theory exploration. By practicing in different keys and using tools like Skoove, you can master this captivating mode and enrich your musical expression.
Author of this blog post:
Susana Pérez Posada
With over seven years of piano education and a deep passion for music therapy, Susana brings a unique blend of expertise to Skoove. A graduate in Music Therapy from SRH Hochschule Heidelberg and an experienced classical pianist from Universidad EAFIT, she infuses her teaching with a holistic approach that transcends traditional piano lessons. Susana’s writings for Skoove combine her rich musical knowledge with engaging storytelling, enriching the learning experience for pianists of all levels. Away from the piano, she loves exploring new places and immersing herself in a good book, believing these diverse experiences enhance her creative teaching style.
Published by Lydia Ogn from the Skoove team
