Modes

What happens if we play the notes of C major, but start on D instead of C? We get D E F G A B C: the same seven notes, but the steps between them come in a different order, so it sounds different. A scale made this way is called a mode.

Seven modes from one scale

Starting on each of the seven notes in turn gives seven modes. Their Greek names are old, but the idea is simple: same notes, different home note. Ionian is just the major scale, and Aeolian is the natural minor you already know.

What makes each mode special

Modes with a Major 3rd sound major, modes with a minor 3rd sound minor. Compared with the major or the natural minor scale, each of the other modes changes just one note (Locrian changes two). That one note gives it its character:

• Ionian: the major scale itself: bright and settled
• Dorian: minor with a raised 6th: jazzy, funky, a bit hopeful
• Phrygian: minor with a lowered 2nd: dark, Spanish, popular in metal
• Lydian: major with a raised 4th: bright and dreamy, think film music
• Mixolydian: major with a lowered 7th: rock, blues and folk
• Aeolian: the natural minor: dark and serious
• Locrian: minor with a lowered 2nd and 5th: unstable, rarely used

Hear the difference

Now keep the same root and switch modes. The home note stays put, but some of the other notes change, so you hear each mode's mood directly.