Three-shape Method For Learning Modes At this point try not to rely too much on the diagrams that follow. They're included for reference purposes only. Instead, you should learn the formula for the mode you want to play and sharpen/flatten the corresponding degrees of the Major scale. This way you’re putting the theory into practice and learning where the intervals are. Master the Major scale shapes before anything else then have a go at a couple of the modes with the least amount of alterations (i.e. b7 = Mixolydian, b3 b7 = Dorian).

A firm knowledge of the three Major shapes covering the neck and the mode formulas is everything you need! Do not worry too much about learning all modes of the Harmonic and Melodic minor until you at least have the Major modes down :)

Major Scale ModesIonian 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 Dorian 1 2 b3 4 5 6 b7Phrygian 1 b2 b3 4 5 b6 b7Lydian 1 2 3 #4 5 6 7Mixolydian 1 2 3 4 5 6 b7Aeolian 1 2 b3 4 5 b6 b7Locrian 1 b2 b3 4 b5 b6 b7

Harmonic Minor Scale ModesAeolian nat7 1 2 b3 4 5 b6 7Locrian nat6 1 b2 b3 4 b5 6 b7Ionian #5 1 2 3 4 #5 6 7Dorian #4 1 2 b3 #4 5 6 b7Phrygian nat3 1 b2 3 4 5 b6 b7Lydian #2 1 #2 3 #4 5 6 7Mixolydian #1 #1 2 3 4 5 6 b7

Melodic Minor Scale Modes

Dorian nat7 1 2 b3 4 5 6 7Phrygian nat6 1 b2 b3 4 5 6 b7Lydian #5 1 2 3 #4 #5 6 7Mixolydian #4 1 2 3 #4 5 6 b7Aeolian nat3 1 2 3 4 5 b6 b7Locrian nat2 1 2 b3 4 b5 b6 b7Ionian #1 #1 2 3 4 5 6 7

Copyright 2012 www.adamhooton.com