In this lesson, we are going to learn what guitar modes are and how they can enhance your guitar playing. They can help in both rhythm and lead guitar playing. As well as improve your knowledge of music theory.
What are the modes?
The modes are scales built off of the notes in the major scale. Since there are 7 notes in the major scale, there are going to be 7 modes. These scale patterns are very much like the minor pentatonic scales discussed in other lessons.
For example, if we look at the notes in the G major scale we have G A B C D E F# G. Excluding the last G, we have 7 notes. G-F#. If we create a scale off of each one of these tone degrees we will come up with 7. These are called the modes.
The 7 modes
The 7 modes are as follows:
1.) Ionian
2.) Dorian
3.) Phrygian
4.) Lydian
5.) Mixolydian
6.) Aeolian
7.) Locrian.
Each one of these modes starts on the tone degree of the major scale that it is related to. So if we looked at the G major scale along the length of the fretboard on the 6th string we could start this scale at the 3rd fret.
Do Re Mi
Every major scale in the musical spectrum must have the syllabus of Do Re Mi. This interval of notes is what makes the scale what it is. By knowing this and being able to sound it out, we can find where the notes are located along the 6th string for the G major scale.
In this example, they would be G (3rd fret) A (5th fret) B (7th fret) C (8th fret) D (10th fret) E (12th fret) F# 1(4th fret), and back to G on the 15th fret. Excluding the G note, we have 7 notes.
7 notes, 7 modes
The Ionian mode would start on the G note because that is the first note of the scale. The Dorian mode would start on the A note of the scale, the Phrygian mode would start on the B note (7th fret) because that is the third note in the G major scale. Do you see how these modes relate to the notes of the scale?
If you learn where each note is located along the fretboard in any major key, you’ll be able to find these modes quite easily. You will also be able to use them for your guitar solos. For instance, if you wanted to solo in the key of G major and wanted to play in the Aeolian mode, would you know where that would be located?
Sacred knowledge
This is the sacred knowledge that you want to master! How you can develop your own sound. Be able to understand the sound of a player that uses these modes in their playing. if you have a favorite guitar player who plays in the modes, you now know what they mean when they say modes.
There is a lot of mystery in the guitar fretboard. The way the notes line up is in a very specific order and if you unlock these mysteries, you are going to stand far above the competition.
Watch the video lesson below
Major and minor modes
Since you can build major and minor chords out of the major scale and the modes are created from the tone degrees of the major scale, that would determine that there are major and minor modes as well.
In the major scale, 1, 4, & 5 are major. The 2, 3 & 6 are minor and the 7th is diminished. So that means that the first mode (Ionian) fourth mode (Lydian) and fifth mode (Mixolydian) are all major modes. And the second mode (Dorian) third mode (Phrygian) and sixth mode (Aeolian) are all minors.
Benefits of the modes
The benefit of the modes is that they allow you to understand what chords come out of any given scale. Once you learn all 7 modes and you can visualize them clearly on the fretboard, you’ll be able to see that both major and minor chords can be formed out of each one.
The Locrian mode (the 7th mode built off of the 7th tone degree) is diminished because of the note structure, This gives it a very dark moody quality. The modes all have their character to them that makes them very beneficial to learn and play.
More about the modes
The modes can cover a vast spectrum of material. Each one in its own right can add a lot of versatility to your guitar playing. So much that this lesson would be hours long. That is why I put this information into the book I authored and self-published called: How To Play Guitar Modes.
How To Play Guitar Modes is a method book for beginners and intermediate guitar students. It breaks down the 7 modes that come from the major scale into very simple, easy-to-understand step-by-step lessons. This allows for quicker study and understanding of the concepts and principles associated with guitar modes.
When it comes to playing guitar solos there is a lot of mystery that leaves most guitar players in confusion. Especially when it comes to the modes. With such names as Dorian, Phrygian, & Aeolian, how could there not be?
The reality is that they are not as difficult as they appear to be. That is if you learn the techniques necessary to unlock the mystery of these scales. That is exactly what this book is all about. Unlocking the mysteries of how guitar modes work on the guitar.
- Where they are located within any key.
- How to see them on the guitar fretboard
- What is their scale mode formula is
- What chords can be created out of them
- Their musical character
- Playing them over chord progressions
- Ear training exercises
- Using them to improvise
And many, many more things to help you improve your guitar playing. Both in playing solos and rhythm. In fact, not only will this book help you to improve your solos and rhythm, but also enhance your education in music theory. Once you get done with this book, you will know more about guitar modes than most guitar players.
Easy learning with quick results
There is a lot of mystery when it comes to guitar solos and because of it, learning to play them is not always easy. I had a lot of trouble with them as well. That was until I learned a system out of a book. Method books are great because they can teach you a simple step-by-step manner that will provide easy learning with quick results.
The melodic material presented in this magical grimoire will give you the ability to identify sounds. Develop a better understanding of sacred elements and properties. And will give you more control and better command over your wizard’s wand. Your guitar!
Lesson conclusion
When it comes to playing guitar solos and increasing your knowledge of the fretboard and music in general, you can’t go wrong learning about the modes. They have individual properties that can inspire your playing and give you a very unique sound to your playing.
Learn all 7, learn how they work individually as well as collectively, and add them to your guitar-playing wizard’s chest. Incantations that you can be used to cast spells of magic for both rhythm and lead guitar playing.
And don't forget, if additional help is needed, I offer Private one-on-one instruction. Customized lessons that cater to the individual student's age, interest & skill level. If you feel this can help you to progress faster, contact me today for a free consultation.
Thanks for being here today, and until our next lesson, take care.
Sincerely, Dwayne Jenkins
