Chordscale Theory: Modes of the Major Scale
Dorian, mixolydian, ionian, locrian. You've no doubt heard these terms tossed around in improv books and by teachers but what do they mean and what are they used for? Find out answers to these questions and more in this second lesson in the Chordscale Theory series where the tune Mack the Knife is analyzed and a transcription of Jessica Williams improvising over the changes from her 1997 recording Higher Standards is examined for her use of chordscales in the solo. The Practice Sessions will guide you through the construction and use of each of the 7 modes of the major scale in all 12 keys.

Lesson Stats
When added: 11/16/08; Duration: 15 minutes.

Prerequisites
Moderate keyboard proficiency. Ability to read notation. These lessons are good prerequisites: Introduction to Chordscale Theory; Four Components of Melodic Construction; Improvisation: The Concept

Quiz
Quiz 1: A quiz on the modes of the major scale.

Practice Sessions & Playalongs
Practice Session 1: Write, play and improvise with the modes of all 12 major scales.
Practice Session 2: Analyze the first half of Killing Me Softly for chord function and modes by writing in the roman numeral analysis and chordscale for each chord. Play the chordscales and improvise with them.

Play-alongs for each practice session are included.

Resources for further Listening and Reading
Check out these featured books and recordings.