Modes of the Major Scale

Ecclesiastical modes, also named church modes, Greek modes or Gregorian modes formed in the Middle Ages a set of seven scales whose use has weakened because of the appearance of the major / minor tonal system. Many centuries later these modes have reappeared. 

The Seven Modes Of The Major Scale :

Unlock the full potential of your guitar playing by mastering the modes of the major scale. Whether you're aiming to improvise with confidence, add color to your solos, or better understand the fretboard, the following pages break down each mode in a clear and practical way.

From the bright and uplifting Ionian to the darker, more expressive Locrian, you'll discover how each mode shapes your sound and expands your musical vocabulary.

Click the links below to explore diagrams, examples, and tips designed specifically for guitarists.

➜ Ionian Mode (The Major Scale)

This is the first mode of the major scale.

It sounds bright, happy

Formula : 1 2 3 4 5 6 7

Related Chord : Maj7

➜ Dorian Mode

This is the second mode of the major scale.

It sounds minor, jazzy

Formula : 1 2 ♭3 4 5 6 ♭7

Related Chord : m7

➜ Phrygian Mode

The third mode of the major scale.

It sounds dark, Spanish

Formula : 1 ♭2 ♭3 4 5 ♭6 ♭7

Related Chord : m7 (♭9 sound)

➜ Lydian Mode

This is the fourth mode of the major scale.

It sounds dreamy, bright

Formula : 1 2 3 ♯4 5 6 7

Related Chord : Maj7♯11

➜ Mixolydian Mode

This is the fifth mode of the major scale.

It sounds bluesy

Formula : 1 2 3 4 5 6 ♭7

Related Chord : 7

➜ Aeolian Mode (Natural Minor)

Sixth mode of the major scale.

It sounds natural minor, sad

Formula : 1 2 ♭3 4 5 ♭6 ♭7

Related Chord : m7

➜ Locrian Mode

The seventh mode of the major scale.

It sounds diminished, tense

Formula : 1 ♭2 ♭3 4 ♭5 ♭6 ♭7

Related Chord : m7♭5

Click on the links below to access the lessons and check this lesson to learn parallel and relative modes.