Mastering Music Modes: A Comprehensive Guide to Understanding and Applying Modes in Music Theory

Written by Daisie Team

Published on 21 June 2023 8 min read

When it comes to music theory, modes play a significant role in understanding and creating music. They provide us with different musical colors and emotions to work with and can transform a simple melody into something unique. In this comprehensive guide, we'll explore the seven modes in music theory and learn how to apply them in various musical contexts. So, let's dive into the fascinating world of modes music theory!

Understanding Music Modes

Music modes are scales derived from the major scale, each starting on a different note. They have distinct characteristics, which create unique flavors and emotions. Let's take a closer look at each mode.

Ionian Mode

The Ionian mode is simply the major scale, which is the foundation of Western music. It has a happy and uplifting feel. Here's what you should know about the Ionian mode:

Begins on the first note of the major scale
Formula: Whole, Whole, Half, Whole, Whole, Whole, Half
Example: C Ionian is C, D, E, F, G, A, B, C

Dorian Mode

The Dorian mode has a slightly darker, yet still somewhat upbeat sound. Here's the lowdown on the Dorian mode:

Begins on the second note of the major scale
Formula: Whole, Half, Whole, Whole, Whole, Half, Whole
Example: D Dorian is D, E, F, G, A, B, C, D

Phrygian Mode

The Phrygian mode has a mysterious and exotic feel, often used in Spanish and Middle Eastern music. Here's what you need to know:

Begins on the third note of the major scale
Formula: Half, Whole, Whole, Whole, Half, Whole, Whole
Example: E Phrygian is E, F, G, A, B, C, D, E

Lydian Mode

The Lydian mode has a dreamy, ethereal quality. It's often used in film scores and otherworldly music. Here are the key points:

Begins on the fourth note of the major scale
Formula: Whole, Whole, Whole, Half, Whole, Whole, Half
Example: F Lydian is F, G, A, B, C, D, E, F

Mixolydian Mode

The Mixolydian mode has a bluesy, rock 'n' roll vibe. It's perfect for adding some grit to your music. Here's the scoop:

Begins on the fifth note of the major scale
Formula: Whole, Whole, Half, Whole, Whole, Half, Whole
Example: G Mixolydian is G, A, B, C, D, E, F, G

Aeolian Mode

The Aeolian mode, also known as the natural minor scale, has a sad and melancholic sound. It's widely used in pop, rock, and classical music. Here's what you need to know:

Begins on the sixth note of the major scale
Formula: Whole, Half, Whole, Whole, Half, Whole, Whole
Example: A Aeolian is A, B, C, D, E, F, G, A

Locrian Mode

The Locrian mode is the least common of the modes and has a tense, dissonant sound. It's great for creating an unsettling atmosphere. Here are the essentials:

Begins on the seventh note of the major scale
Formula: Half, Whole, Whole, Half, Whole, Whole, Whole
Example: B Locrian is B, C, D, E, F, G, A, B

Now that we've covered the basics of modes music theory, let's see how we can apply these modes in various musical contexts.

Applying Modes in Music Theory

Modes aren't just theoretical concepts—knowing how to use them practically can enhance your musical creativity and expression. Here are some ways you can apply modes in composition, improvisation, and harmony.

Modes in Composition

When composing music, you can use modes to create unique moods and emotions. Here are some ideas:

Experiment with different modes: Try writing a melody in one mode and then switch to another mode to see how the mood changes.
Combine modes: You can use different modes in different sections of your composition, like having a verse in Dorian mode and a chorus in Mixolydian mode.
Modal interchange: Borrow chords from other modes to create interesting chord progressions and add depth to your compositions.

Modes in Improvisation

Improvisation is a great way to explore modes music theory. Here's how you can use modes while improvising:

Know your mode: Familiarize yourself with the mode you're playing in and its characteristic intervals. This will help you create melodies that fit the mood of the mode.
Emphasize important notes: In each mode, there are certain notes that give it its unique flavor. Make sure to emphasize these notes when improvising.
Experiment with modal changes: Try changing modes during your improvisation to create new musical ideas and add variety to your playing.

Modes in Harmony

Modes can help you create interesting harmonies and chord progressions. Here are some tips:

Understand modal chords: Each mode has its own set of chords based on its scale degrees. To create harmonies within a mode, use the chords derived from that mode.
Modal cadences: Modes have their own unique cadences (chord progressions that create a sense of resolution). Learn these cadences to create satisfying endings to your modal progressions.
Explore modal interchange: As mentioned earlier, you can borrow chords from other modes to create interesting and unexpected harmonic shifts in your music.

With these applications in mind, let's explore some resources to help you master modes music theory.

Learning Resources for Music Modes

There are many resources available to help you deepen your understanding of modes music theory. Here are some recommendations for books, online courses, and YouTube channels that can support your learning journey.

Books on Music Modes

Books can provide in-depth explanations and exercises to help you master modes. Here are a few popular options:

The Modal System in Music Theory — This book offers a thorough introduction to modes and their uses in different musical styles.
Modalogy: Scales, Modes & Chords — This book is great for understanding the relationships between modes, scales, and chords.
Improvising with Modes — This book focuses on using modes in improvisation and includes exercises and examples to practice.

Online Courses

Online courses are an interactive way to learn modes music theory. Consider these options:

Introduction to Modes in Music: This course covers the basics of modes and how to use them in composition and improvisation.
Modal Harmony Workshop: This course dives into using modes in harmony, including modal chord progressions and interchange techniques.
Exploring Modes on Guitar: Specifically designed for guitar players, this course teaches modes and their applications on the instrument.

YouTube Channels

YouTube is a treasure trove of free educational content on modes music theory. Here are some channels to check out:

Music Theory Lessons: This channel offers lessons on various music theory topics, including modes, scales, and harmony.
Modal Mastery: This channel focuses specifically on modes, with tutorials and demonstrations on how to use them in your music.
Jazz Theory & Improvisation: Though primarily focused on jazz, this channel offers lessons on modes and their applications in improvisation for various instruments.

Now that you have a good understanding of modes music theory and resources to learn more, it's time to start practicing!

Practicing Music Modes

Understanding modes music theory is just the first step. To truly master modes, you'll need to practice regularly. Here are some techniques, apps, and tools to help you develop your skills, along with suggestions for practice routines.

Techniques for Practice

These techniques can help you become more proficient with modes:

Scale exercises: Practice playing each mode's scale, ascending and descending, to familiarize yourself with the unique patterns and intervals.
Chord progressions: Create and play chord progressions using modal harmony to understand how different modes affect the overall mood of a piece.
Improvisation: Improvise melodies using specific modes to internalize their unique sounds and characteristics.
Transposing: Practice transposing modes to different keys to become comfortable playing them in any situation.

Apps and Tools

There are several apps and tools that can support your practice sessions:

Metronome apps: A metronome is essential for keeping time as you practice scales and chord progressions. Many apps are available for smartphones and tablets.
Chord progression generators: Online tools can generate random modal chord progressions for you to practice with, helping you explore new combinations and ideas.
Backing track libraries: Use backing tracks in different modes to practice improvisation and develop your modal vocabulary.
Music theory apps: Some apps offer lessons, quizzes, and exercises to help you learn and practice modes music theory.

Practice Routines

Consistency is key when it comes to mastering modes in music. Consider incorporating these elements into your practice routine:

Warm up with scale exercises for each mode.
Work on chord progressions using modal harmony.
Improvise over backing tracks in different modes and keys.
Transpose modes to various keys and practice playing them in different positions.
Review any new concepts or techniques learned from books, courses, or videos.

By dedicating time to practicing modes music theory, you'll develop a deeper understanding of how modes can enhance your compositions and improvisations. Now, let's take a look at some real-world examples of modes in action.

Musical Examples of Modes

Seeing modes music theory applied in actual songs can provide valuable insight into how they can be used to create different moods and textures. Let's explore some popular songs that showcase each mode.

Songs in Ionian Mode

The Ionian mode is the same as the major scale and is commonly used in many popular songs. Here are a few examples:

"Happy Birthday to You" — A universally known song that perfectly illustrates the cheerful sound of the Ionian mode.
"Twist and Shout" by The Beatles — This classic Beatles tune showcases the uplifting quality of the Ionian mode.
"Don't Stop Believin'" by Journey — This iconic anthem features a bright, hopeful melody in the Ionian mode.

Songs in Dorian Mode

The Dorian mode has a slightly darker sound than Ionian but remains somewhat upbeat. Take a listen to these songs featuring the Dorian mode:

"Scarborough Fair" — This traditional English folk song has a haunting quality thanks to the Dorian mode.
"Eleanor Rigby" by The Beatles — The melancholic melody of this Beatles classic is rooted in the Dorian mode.
"So What" by Miles Davis — This famous jazz piece showcases the cool, sophisticated sound of the Dorian mode.

Songs in Phrygian Mode

The Phrygian mode is known for its exotic, mysterious sound. Here are some songs that make use of this mode:

"White Rabbit" by Jefferson Airplane — The descending Phrygian melody creates a sense of tension and intrigue in this psychedelic rock classic.
"Spain" by Chick Corea — This jazz fusion masterpiece features a memorable Phrygian melody that evokes a sense of adventure.
"The Trooper" by Iron Maiden — The aggressive riffs in this heavy metal anthem are driven by the Phrygian mode.

Songs in Lydian Mode

The Lydian mode has a bright, dreamy sound that is perfect for creating a sense of wonder. Check out these Lydian-mode songs:

"Flying in a Blue Dream" by Joe Satriani — This instrumental rock song features a soaring Lydian melody that lives up to its title.
"Jane Says" by Jane's Addiction — The Lydian mode adds an air of optimism to this alternative rock hit.
"Super Mario Bros. Theme" by Koji Kondo — The playful, uplifting melody of this iconic video game theme is a perfect example of the Lydian mode.

Songs in Mixolydian Mode

With a slightly bluesy sound, the Mixolydian mode is popular in various genres. Here are some songs that feature the Mixolydian mode:

"Sweet Home Alabama" by Lynyrd Skynyrd — The Mixolydian mode gives this Southern rock classic its catchy, feel-good vibe.
"Norwegian Wood" by The Beatles — This song's Mixolydian melody adds a touch of folk charm to the mix.
"Shakedown Street" by Grateful Dead — The Mixolydian mode lends a groovy, laid-back quality to this funky jam.

Songs in Aeolian Mode

Also known as the natural minor scale, the Aeolian mode is prevalent in many popular songs. Here are some examples:

"Stairway to Heaven" by Led Zeppelin — The iconic guitar riff in this rock classic is based on the Aeolian mode.
"Billie Jean" by Michael Jackson — The Aeolian mode contributes to the dark, mysterious atmosphere of this pop hit.
"Losing My Religion" by R.E.M. — The melancholic melody of this alternative rock anthem is rooted in the Aeolian mode.

Songs in Locrian Mode

The Locrian mode is the least common mode in popular music due to its dissonant, unstable sound. However, here's an example of a song that incorporates the Locrian mode:

"Army of Me" by Björk — This experimental pop song features a driving bassline in the Locrian mode, adding tension and unease to the track.

By listening to these examples and applying your knowledge of modes music theory, you can gain a better understanding of how modes can be used creatively in your own music.

If you're inspired by the idea of creating music from everyday sounds, be sure to check out the workshop 'Making Music From Everyday Sounds' by Tom Glendinning. This workshop will teach you how to transform ordinary noises into extraordinary music and unlock your creativity using the world around you as your instrument.