I'll first explain modal scales ("church modes") the way they originated: with my voice. Sing along with the exercises (feel free to sing an octave lower, as my vocal range is quite high). This will make the theoretical construct tangible and experiential. Modal scales originated in medieval churches, and these sounds are often used to teach the secrets of jazz improvisation. The modes are often explained as different sections of a major scale. Each note of the scale is used as the root note of each mode. In C major, these sounds are called:
C major (standard major scale, interval structure 1 2 3 4 5 6 7) D Dorian (minor with a major sixth 1 2 b3 4 5 6 b7) E Phrygian (minor with a minor second and minor sixth 1 b2 b3 4 5 b6 b7) F Lydian (major with a raised fourth degree 1 2 3 #4 5 6 7) G Mixolydian (major with a minor seventh 1 2 3 4 5 6 b7) A Aeolian (standard minor scale with the characteristic of a minor sixth 1 2 b3 4 5 b6 b7) B Locrian (Phrygian with an additional diminished fifth 1 b2 b3 4 b5 b6 b7)
Level
Easy peasy
Lessons
3 Lessons | min
Lesson 1Introduction
Duration: min
Let me introduce you to the topics covered in the course "Modes".
Lesson 2Modes Introduction
Duration: min
Here I'll explain all seven modes of a major scale using C major as an example. I'll highlight the significant differences and sing (also using some improvised melodies) the sound and describe the emotional effect of these scales.
Lesson 3All Modes with the Root Note G
Duration: min
In this video, we'll move away from the often-presented, seemingly unavoidable view of C major, and instead, I'll present all seven modes using the root note G. This results in the following "mother" scales:
G Ionian: G major G Dorian: 2nd degree of F major G Phrygian: 3rd degree of E-flat major G Lydian: 4th degree of D major G Mixolydian: 5th degree of C major G Aeolian: 6th degree of B-flat major G Locrian: 7th degree of A-flat major
At the end of this video, I'll do a quick run-through where you can clearly hear how the differences between the scales actually sound. Play these sounds along with the jam track; you're guaranteed to have some lightbulb moments. Good luck!
