HelloWorldGuitar

First off, what are the Modes?

Modes are simply scales created by taking the notes in any Major Scale and setting the root to a different scale degree.

Here are some tips on how to add musical modes into your guitar playing

Learn the different modes. The first step is to learn the different modes and their unique sounds. There are seven modes, each with its own distinct “flavor”.

• Ionian mode: This is the major scale, and it sounds bright, happy, and stable. Some examples of songs in the Ionian mode include “Happy” by Pharrell Williams and “Let It Be” by The Beatles.
• Dorian mode: This mode has a minor third interval between the first and second notes, which gives it a more somber sound than the Ionian mode. Some examples of songs in the Dorian mode include “Hallelujah” by Leonard Cohen and “Oye Como Va” by Santana.
• Phrygian mode: This mode has a lowered second degree, which gives it a darker and more mysterious sound. Some examples of songs in the Phrygian mode include “Purple Rain” by Prince and “Layla” by Eric Clapton.
• Lydian mode: This mode has a raised fourth degree, which gives it a brighter and more optimistic sound. Some examples of songs in the Lydian mode include “Take Five” by The Dave Brubeck Quartet and “So What” by Miles Davis.
• Mixolydian mode: This mode has a lowered seventh degree, which gives it a bluesy and more relaxed sound. Some examples of songs in the Mixolydian mode include “Knockin’ on Heaven’s Door” by Bob Dylan and “Sweet Home Alabama” by Lynyrd Skynyrd.
• Aeolian mode: This is the natural minor scale, and it sounds sad, melancholy, and romantic. Some examples of songs in the Aeolian mode include “Yesterday” by The Beatles and “Somewhere Over the Rainbow” by Judy Garland.
• Locrian mode: This mode has a lowered second and sixth degree, which gives it a very dark and dissonant sound. Some examples of songs in the Locrian mode are rare, but one example is “The End” by The Doors.

It is important to note that these are just general descriptions of the different modes, and the actual sound of a piece of music will depend on a variety of factors, such as the melody, harmony, rhythm, and instrumentation.

Now let’s line up each of the modes to start in the Key of C and group them into Major or Minor sounding scales:

Scale Patterns for each of the Modes

Practice playing each mode in different positions on the guitar. Once you know the different modes, it’s important to practice playing them in different positions on the guitar. This will help you develop fluency in each mode and make it easier to improvise with them.

Use modes to create new melodies and solos. Once you’re comfortable playing the different modes, you can start using them to create new melodies and solos. Experiment with different modes over different chords and see what sounds good to you.

Listen to music that uses modes. One of the best ways to learn how to use modes is to listen to music that uses them. There are many great examples of music that uses modes, from classical to jazz to rock. Pay attention to how the modes are used in these pieces and try to emulate them in your own playing.

Ionian Mode Song Examples
Tom Petty – Free Fallin’ (F Ionian)
The Beatles – Let It Be (C Ionian)
Allman Brothers Band – Ramblin’ Man (Ab Ionian)
Dorian Mode Song Examples
Simon & Garfunkel – Scarborough Fair (E Dorian)
Jimi Hendrix – Purple Haze (E Dorian)
Pink Floyd – Another Brick in the Wall (D Dorian)
Nirvana – Heart Shaped Box (Ab Dorian)
Phrygian Mode Song Examples
Metallica – Creeping Death (E Phrygian)
Slayer – Seasons In The Abyss (Eb Phrygian / Eb Locrian)
Alice in Chains – Would (verse) (F Phrygian)
Lydian Mode Song Examples
The Simpsons Theme (C, then B, then E Lydian)
Pearl Jam – Oceans (C Lydian)
Mixolydian Mode Song Examples
Lynyrd Skynyrd – Sweet Home Alabama (D Mixolydian)
Guns n Roses – Sweet Child O Mine (verse) (Db Mixolydian)
ACDC – Thunderstruck (E Mixolydian)
Aeolian Mode Song Examples
Guns n Roses – Sweet Child O Mine (2nd half to end solo) (Eb Aeolian)
Led Zeppelin – Stairway To Heaven (end section and solo) (A Aeolian)
Nirvana – Smells Like Teen Spirit (F Aeolian)
Locrian Mode Song Examples
Slipknot – Left Behind (main riff notes) (B Locrian)
Metallica – Sad But True (Intro) (G Locrian)
Metallica – Enter Sandman (main riff is Blues/Locrian) (E)

Don’t be afraid to experiment. The most important thing is to experiment with modes and see what sounds good to you. There are no right or wrong answers when it comes to using modes, so don’t be afraid to try new things.

Here are some additional tips that may help you:

• Use a backing track or loop pedal to practice improvising with modes. This will help you get a feel for how the modes sound in a musical context.
• Learn some common patterns and licks in each mode. This will give you a foundation to build on when you’re improvising.
• Don’t be afraid to use other scales and modes in combination. This can create some really interesting and unique sounds.
• Have fun! Experimenting with modes should be enjoyable. If you’re not having fun, you’re less likely to stick with it.