Greek modes used to be a mystery to me personally. Since its construction, study and use were confusing to understand. Let’s see how I practice the Dorian Mode.
What Is A Dorian Mode?
This mode is based on the second degree of the major scale. Therefore it contains a minor key. But something to always keep in mind is how to use it most effectively when improvising or creating melodies. That’s why I make use of tracks to practice the modes. In this video, I used a backing track from YouTube’s own Foxy Music channel.
What Does A Dorian Mode Look Like
If we focus on building Dorian Mode in D. Then we have several build opportunities. For example, if we start on the fifth string we could create a pattern of three notes per string. Until you can play two octaves. Just as the picture shows. Let’s use the technique of three notes per string. We will concentrate on using all four fingers as we move across the fretboard.
If you want to learn a bit more about how to place your fingers on the fretboard, then I have a lesson on this here. Starting with the index finger and the fifth string. We see in the diagram, how easy it is for us to play the notes of the Doric way.
However, the key to success would be to focus on the rhythm of the musical passage. We can play on black notes. Play in eighth notes. Play in sixteenth notes or play in triples. However, in the video, you will see that I use combinations of all these elements.
Therefore, it is in our best interest to think about the correct notes; But, don’t forget the rhythm. The challenge then is to do all this musically. In conclusion, we must be using all these elements that are within our reach. More importantly, make use of it from the moment of practice.
