dorian_scale.pdf

FENDER PLAYERS CLUB THE DORIAN SCALE

The Dorian scale is a very widely used sound. Its construction is based on raising the sixth degree of a natural minor scale:

(b)3

raised 6

(b)7

1(8)

The sound of the Dorian is “brighter” than the natural minor scale. There are many uses for the Dorian scale. It can be

found in a lot of modal jazz, as well as in pop, Latin, and blues. The Dorian scale is also one of the modes of the major

scale. It is the second mode of the major scale - that is, the scale of C major, but starting and ending on the D note.

Some see this as an easier method of learning the modes of the major scale. The approach we use is to see each of the

scales as its own entity, which has its own set of chords and sounds. This allows the player to become familiar with the

sounds and tendencies of each of the major scale modes. The classification of major, minor, or blues tonality also helps

the player use these scales or modes in the proper harmonic settings. (The Dorian scale is a minor tonality scale.)

The Dorian scale may be used from the root of a minor chord. It should also be used when a IV chord in a minor tonality

chord progression is either a major or dominant chord, as in the following progression:

FIG. 1

Use the Dorian scale based on the tonic of the key center. The note that was changed in the natural minor to yield the

Dorian scale (the raised sixth degree) causes the IV chord of the harmonized scale to be either a major triad, or a

dominant chord. Other chords in the harmonized scale change as well, however the major or dominant IV chord is seen

quite often and requires the use of the Dorian scale (from the key center tonic) to make the listener “hear” it.

PATTERNS OF THE DORIAN SCALE

The following diagrams furnish patterns and fingerings for the Dorian scale (patterns 2 and 4):

FIG. 2

Be able to play these ascending and descending in any key.

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FENDER PLAYERS CLUB THE DORIAN SCALE

DORIAN SCALE SEQUENCES AND MOTIFS

Sequences help us to learn the fingering patterns and give ideas on how to combine the notes to make melodies. The

following examples show the ascending and descending versions of three sequences. Be able to play each of them

ascending and descending through the entire Dorian scale fingering patterns. Always begin with alternate picking, then

apply hammer-ons, pull-offs, and all other methods for producing notes:

FIG. 3 - DORIAN SEQUENCES

FIG. 4

FIG. 5

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FENDER PLAYERS CLUB THE DORIAN SCALE

This lesson is from the book:

Guitar Soloing: The Contemporary Guide to Improvisation ( Musicians Institute Press)

by David Gilbert and Beth Marlis.

A comprehensive source for mastering the art of single note, melodic improvisation.

The topics covered include: scales, modes, arpeggios, technique and visualization

exercises; rock, blues, jazz, and other styles; and sequences, phrases, and licks.

The CD includes over 30 tracks for demonstration and play-along.

Inventory # HL 695190. Book/CD pack $19.95 (US).

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