Modes

Dorian Mode	This is the most widely used mode  You can play it by starting on D (the white key between the two black keys) and play just the white keys to the next D.  This mode is easy to remember: Dorian begins with D and the scale stars on D.  You’ll never forget this mode. It is like a major scale with a flat 3rd and a flat 7th note.
Phrygian Mode	This mode begins on E.  Play all the white key up to the next E.  It has a very sad sound and is heard in lots of Spanish, Hebrew, and Gypsy music.  It is the only mode that begins with a half-step.  Composers use this mode when they want their music to sound Oriental.  It is like a major scale with 2 – 3 – 6 – 7 played flat.
Lydian Mode	This mode sounds almost the same as the major scale.  It has an odd-sounding 4th note.  Start on F and play all the white keys up to the nextF. It is a major scale with a sharp 4.
Mixolydian Mode	This has a long name, but is simple to play.  Start on G and play all the white keys up to the next G.  This also sounds like the major scale, but it has a strange-sounding 7th tone.  It’s used a lot in rock and roll and jazz music.   It is a major scale with a flat 7th note.
Aeolian Mode	Just like its name, this mode begins on A.  Start on A and play all the white keys up to the next A.  This is also called the natural minor scale. It is a major scale with a flat 3 – 6 – 7.
Locrian Mode	This mode sounds so strange it is almost never used.  It begins and ends on B.  You can forget this one. It is a major scale with a flat 2 – 3 – 5 – 6 – 7.

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