How many modes of music are there?

Question

and what good is it to know them? what is used for each style?

Answer 1

what do you mean by modes?

Answer 2

Their are 7 basic modes in music. A mode is distinguished by the pattern of tones and semitones, not by the actual pitches used.

Ionian mode = C-major

Dorian mode = starts on the d note of the C-major scale

Phrygian= starts on E

Lydian mode = starts on F

Mixolydian =starts on G

Aeolian = starts on A

Locrian = starts on B

You also have Ethnic modes and Ukranian modes.

The only reason to know the modes is to enrich your solo improvisation or leads.

Take for instance metal or hard rock solos. They often use the locrian and diminish arpeggios and sounds good actually.

On another level, jazz guitarist and fusion usic use these a lot.

The minors are good for Blues or soft romantic music.

This depends on the feel of what you are actually playing.

Melodies, riffs, lead guitar solos and bass lines can all be derived from modal scales.

Here is a good site for all your needs.

http://guitar-music-theory.com/index.htm...