Topmusicanswers
- What chords go with what modes?
- How do I know what mode to play over what chords?
- What is the purpose of chord scales?
What chords go with what modes?
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 |
How do I know what mode to play over what chords?
Each mode is able to play over a specific set of chords. If the chord is dominant, like a G7 or G9, you'd want to play the Mixolydian mode. If it is a minor chord, you can play the dorian, phrygian, or aeolian mode. As the chords get more complex, the mode choices go down.
What is the purpose of chord scales?
Chord-Scale Theory is an approach to improvising that relates chords to scales. The name “chord-scale theory” comes from the idea that the notes of a 13th chord can be rearranged as a seven-note scale. To determine chord-scales, identify key centers and chord functions through Roman numeral analysis.
