Greek Modes in Music and Guitar

The Greek Modes Explained: Unlocking the Full Potential of Scales

The Greek modes are a fundamental part of music theory, offering unique flavors to compositions. They’re commonly used in jazz, rock, metal, and even pop music. Each mode provides its own mood, from the happy brightness of Ionian to the mysterious and dark Phrygian.

In this post, we’ll explore the seven modes and show you how to use them in your compositions, including chord progressions and famous song examples for each.

1. Ionian Mode: The Major Scale

The Ionian mode is what we often refer to as the major scale. It has a bright, happy sound and is the basis for most Western music.

• Intervals: W-W-H-W-W-W-H (C - D - E - F - G - A - B)
• Mood: Bright, happy, resolved

Chord Progression Example: I-IV-V (C-F-G in C major)

Song Example:

• “Let It Be” by The Beatles

2. Dorian Mode: Minor with a Twist

The Dorian mode has a minor sound, but with a raised 6th, giving it a slightly more hopeful and jazzy character compared to the natural minor scale.

• Intervals: W-H-W-W-W-H-W
• Mood: Minor with a brighter feel, somewhat jazzy

Chord Progression Example: i-IV (Am-D in A Dorian)

Song Example:

• “Scarborough Fair” by Simon & Garfunkel
• “Oye Como Va” by Santana

3. Phrygian Mode: Exotic and Dark

The Phrygian mode is one of the darkest-sounding modes, thanks to its flat 2nd interval. It’s often used in metal and Spanish-influenced music.

• Intervals: H-W-W-W-H-W-W
• Mood: Dark, exotic, tense

Chord Progression Example: i-bII (Em-F in E Phrygian)

Song Example:

• “Wherever I May Roam” by Metallica
• “Symphony of Destruction” by Megadeth

4. Lydian Mode: Dreamy and Uplifting

The Lydian mode is like the major scale but with a raised 4th, giving it a dreamy, otherworldly feel.

• Intervals: W-W-W-H-W-W-H
• Mood: Dreamy, uplifting, magical

Chord Progression Example: I-II (C-D in C Lydian)

Song Example:

• “Flying in a Blue Dream” by Joe Satriani
• “Freewill” by Rush

5. Mixolydian Mode: Bluesy and Rocking

The Mixolydian mode is a major scale with a flat 7th, giving it a bluesy, rock-oriented sound. It’s widely used in rock and blues music.

• Intervals: W-W-H-W-W-H-W
• Mood: Bluesy, dominant, gritty

Chord Progression Example: I-VII-IV (C-Bb-F in C Mixolydian)

Song Example:

• “Sweet Home Alabama” by Lynyrd Skynyrd
• “All Along the Watchtower” by Jimi Hendrix

6. Aeolian Mode: The Natural Minor

The Aeolian mode is the natural minor scale, providing a sad, melancholic feel. It’s used in everything from classical music to metal.

• Intervals: W-H-W-W-H-W-W
• Mood: Sad, melancholic, reflective

Chord Progression Example: i-VI-III-VII (Am-F-C-G in A minor)

Song Example:

• “Nothing Else Matters” by Metallica
• “House of the Rising Sun” by The Animals

7. Locrian Mode: The Dissonant Mode

The Locrian mode is the most unstable and dissonant of all modes, starting with a flat 5th. It’s rarely used in popular music due to its dissonance but is interesting for experimental compositions.

• Intervals: H-W-W-H-W-W-W
• Mood: Dissonant, unresolved, unstable

Chord Progression Example: i-bV (Bm-F in B Locrian)

Song Example:

• “Genghis Khan” by Iron Maiden (partial use)
• “The Evil That Men Do” by Iron Maiden

How to Use Modes in Your Own Compositions

Here are some tips to help you integrate modes into your music:

1. Choose the Mode Based on the Mood: Each mode has a distinct mood. Ionian and Lydian are bright and happy, while Phrygian and Locrian are dark and tense.
2. Experiment with Modal Chord Progressions: Use the example chord progressions as starting points to create modal flavor in your compositions.
3. Mix and Match Modes: Try switching modes within a piece to create contrast and add interest.
4. Improvise with the Scale: Solo over a chord progression using notes from the corresponding mode to create modal melodies and leads.

Conclusion

The Greek modes open up a world of creative possibilities. Whether you’re writing a rock anthem, a jazz piece, or an experimental track, incorporating modal ideas can add depth and intrigue to your music. Start experimenting with these modes today and see where they take your compositions.