Dorian Mode
Modal Structure
The Dorian mode is a minor scale with a raised 6th degree, giving it a slightly brighter quality than natural minor. It is the characteristic sound of jazz and Celtic music.
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Formula | W-H-W-W-W-H-W |
| C Dorian Mode Notes | C, D, D#, F, G, A, A# |
| Scale Degrees | 1 - 2 - ♭3 - 4 - 5 - 6 - ♭7 |
| Parent Scale | C Dorian is the 2nd mode of Bb Major |
Characteristic Notes & Sound
- Characteristic Note
- Major 6th (raised 6th vs natural minor)
- Tonal Color
- Dark but with a hopeful lift — jazz, soul, and Celtic music
Genre Context & Song Examples
Dorian mode appears throughout jazz (Miles Davis's Kind of Blue), classic rock (Santana), and folk music. It provides a minor sound with a brighter, more hopeful quality than natural minor.
- So What — Miles Davis
- Scarborough Fair — Simon & Garfunkel
- Oye Como Va — Santana
Diatonic Chords
| Degree | C Dorian Mode Chord | Triad Quality |
|---|---|---|
| I | C Minor | Minor |
| II | D Minor | Minor |
| III | D# Major | Major |
| IV | F Major | Major |
| V | G Minor | Minor |
| VI | A Diminished | Diminished |
| VII | A# Major | Major |
Related Scales & Keys
Full Dorian Mode scale reference — all 12 keys with note names, diatonic chords, and key signatures.
Major Scale reference — see how modes relate to the parent major scale.