Dorian
Introduction
The Dorian mode is a minor mode with a twist: it has a natural 6th instead of a flat 6, which gives it a soulful, jazzy flavor.
Structure of the Dorian Mode
The Dorian mode is the second mode of the major scale.
Formula: 1, 2, ♭3, 4, 5, 6, ♭7
Intervals:
- Root
- Major 2nd
- Minor 3rd
- Perfect 4th
- Perfect 5th
- Major 6th
- Minor 7th
Interval formula: W – H – W – W – W – H – W
Example:
D Dorian Scale: D – E – F – G – A – B – C – D
Dorian in Action
Iconic Examples:
- “So What” by Miles Davis – The quintessential Dorian jazz piece.
- “Mad World” by Tears for Fears – Emotional Dorian harmonies.
- “Get Lucky” by Daft Punk – Dorian’s major 6th in action.
Chord Quality
Diatonic Triads in Dorian Mode
| Degree | Chord Type | Example (D Dorian) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| I | Minor | Dm | D - F - A |
| II | Minor | Em | E - G - B |
| III | Major | F | F - A - C |
| IV | Major | G | G - B - D |
| V | Minor | Am | A - C - E |
| VI | Diminished | Bdim | B - D - F |
| VII | Major | C | C - E - G |
Diatonic 7th Chords in Dorian Mode
| Degree | Chord Type | Example (D Dorian) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| I | Minor 7 | Dm7 | D - F - A - C |
| II | Minor 7 | Em7 | E - G - B - D |
| III | Major 7 | Fmaj7 | F - A - C - E |
| IV | Dominant 7 | G7 | G - B - D - F |
| V | Minor 7 | Am7 | A - C - E - G |
| VI | Half-Dim | Bm7♭5 | B - D - F - A |
| VII | Major 7 | Cmaj7 | C - E - G - B |
Common Progressions
- i-IV: Dm - G
- i-ii-IV: Dm - Em - G
- i-v7-i: Dm - Am7 - Dm
