Topmusicanswers
2. The best way to understand modes.
- CDEFGABC = 1st mode: Ionian (actually major scale)
- DEFGABCD = 2nd mode: Dorian (start from 2nd note)
- EFGABCDE = 3rd mode: Phrygian (start from 3rd note)
- FGABCDEF = 4th mode: Lydian (start from 4th note)
- GABCDEFG = 5th mode: Mixolydian (start from 5th note)
Which modes go with which chords?
Major chords follow the formula 1-3-5-7. Both Ionian and Lydian modes contain these notes; therefore either mode can be used.
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Seventh Chords and Modes.
| Chord Quality | Mode |
|---|---|
| Major, Major 7 | Ionian, Lydian |
| Minor, Minor 7 | Dorian, Phrygian, Aeolian |
| Major, Dominant 7 | Mixolydian |
| Diminished, Minor7b5 | Locrian |
What are the modes in order?
The seven main categories of mode have been part of musical notation since the middle ages. So, the list goes: Ionian, Dorian, Phrygian, Lydian, Mixolydian, Aeolian and Locrian.
