Guitar Player's Vol. 1 | Page 6

would be: C D E F G A B C. Keep in mind that this formula can be applied in any key.

Here is a diagram of formulas for other major scales (all derived from the major scale's intervals):

Ionian mode: 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 1

Example: C D E F G A B C

In steps: W W H W W W H

Info: This is also the major scale. By applying the nuances of the listed modes, you will be able to create a scale in many modes across the neck.

Dorian mode: 1 2 b3 4 5 6 b7 1

Example: C D Eb F G A Bb C

In Steps: W H W W W H W

Phrygian mode: 1 b2 b3 4 5 b6 b7 1

Example: C Db Eb F G Ab Bb C

In Steps: H W W W H W W

Lydian: 1 2 3 #4 5 6 7 1

Example: C D E F# G A B C

In Steps: W W W H W W H

Mixolydian: 1 2 3 4 5 6 b7 1

Example: C D E F G A Bb C

In Steps: W W H W W H W

Aeolian: 1 2 b3 4 5 b6 b7 1

Example: C D Eb F G Ab Bb C

In Steps: W H W W H W W

Locrian: 1 b2 b3 4 b5 b6 b7 1

Example: C Db Eb F Gb Ab Bb C

In Steps: H W W H W W W

This mode is very good for jazz; is a minor mode

This mode has a Spanish sound to it, and is minor.

Closest mode to the major scale; is a major mode

This mode has a bluesy quality to it; is major.

Also known as the minor scale (natural)

A diminished scale; sounds very dark.