Modes in Scaleforms

The seven Greek modes (Ionian, Dorian, Phrygian, Lydian, Mixolydian, Aolian and Locrian) can all be played using the same 5 scale forms we have already examined.

If you examine the number system and the scale forms again, notice that there are only seven notes in the scale form before it repeats. If we treat the 1 as the root of the scale, and resolve (end) our melody or song on the 1, we are playing a major scale, which the Greeks called Ionian mode.

If you start and end on the 2, and resolve to the 2, you are in Dorian mode.

Phrygian starts and ends on the 3.

Lydian on the 4.

Mixolydian on the 5.

Aolian (which is also called Natural Minor) on the 6

Locrian on the 7.

Although I show the modes in G form, remember you can use any scale form to play any mode by starting and resolving on the proper number. My personal favorite modes in order are: Ionian, Aolian, Mixolydian, and Dorian. I hardly use the others.

More often than pure modes, I use the Joe Pass Major minor scale. Listen to some Joe Pass if you haven't. He's old, even by my standards, but he is an Artist on guitar.

Modes are covered very well from a guitar player's perspective in Fretboard Logic II by Bill Edwards. It's included in the box set below. The other two books are applicable to this also.

Bill Edwards Publishing Complete Fretboard Logic System Box Set (Book/DVD)

The Bill Edwards Publishing Complete Fretboard Logic System Box Set (DVD) gives you the entire Fretboard Logic guitar system at a special package price. Introduces the guitar's unique tuning and basic fretboard patterns; builds on this foundation with chords, scales, and arpeggios; and then allows the player to focus on expressing a chosen style. Includes Fretboard Logic SE and Fretboard Logic III in newly revised editions plus videos I and II in DVD format.

Now pick up your guitar and practice!

Here are the five basic scaleforms again. Look at the numbers.

This is a free site, and everyone is welcome here. Now practice your guitar. :)

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Using Aolian Mode with chord progressions
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Copyright 1999 Randolph J. Sadewater

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