Question about Modes and Scales?

Question

i'm having trouble with the 7 modes. are there different ways of playing each one? because when i look for modes different sources have different positioning of the 7 modes. for example i would practice the dorian scale, and then later on a different website it would have a different way of playing the dorian scale. so am i suppose to practice all of them?

Answer 1

each mode has 12 transpositions (1 for each of 12 keys).

so you learn the pattern in one key by interval relationship, then move it to the next key,.....etc. etc. etc.

the modes can also be play in different ranges too

Answer 2

Good answers, but remember to learn the major scale in every key as a basis.

Answer 3

Some of Jo Ann's information is incorrect, or misleading. First off the dorian mode is a MINOR 7th scale degree. It's easier to find if you just start your major scale on the second note and extend it one note higher(G major start on A use the G major fingering and play an A note after the high G) The Am example although not incorrect would work better with a C major scale (the note F# from the G major scale does not belong in the key of C in which A is the relative minor chord.) While in the key of C the dorian mode would start on the note D.

Answer 4

If you are playing a guitar or bass, you should understand that there are different patterns, or ways to play, the same notes on the fretboard.  So while 2 patterns of a Dorian scale may look different on paper or your fretboard, if you listen closely you'll hear that the scales are identical.

Answer 5

Here is an easy way.. Learn all the 7 modes in one position only.

then, just transfer the notes to different positions in the same key.

There is nothing mysterious about dorian scales or others. You have to realize that the mode can be played in different position for the same key and it can start on a different note as well.

Dorian mode = a major 7 scale 1 tone down from the minor key you are playing in and this applies to any position on the fingerboard.

EX:

-If you play A min....., any note you play on the G-major scale will fit and their is no bad notes.

You can play the G-major in the 8th and 10th position. Only the fingering changes and you are allowed to mix the notes among themselves.

This applies to Phrygian, Mixolydian, Lydian, Aelion, Locrian modes as well.

Here is a good link that you will appreciate:

http://www.modes4guitar.com/