In today's lesson, we are going to learn how to unlock your potential with the Ionian mode. Knowing the mode is one thing, but knowing how to improvise with it is something else entirely. This lesson will show you how to do it.
The Ionian mode
Remember, the Ionian mode is the major scale. It is comprised of 7 notes and will have the sound of " Do Re Me. This is how you know it is the major scale. Now, what makes the major scale so cool is that we can create 7 modes out of the 7 notes. This gives us a lot more to work with.
The G Ionian mode:
#2: The whole-step, half-step formula
The Ionian is the major scale, with a root, 2nd, 3rd, 4th, 5th, 6th, and 7th tone degrees. By knowing the intervals of these notes, you will be able to produce a happy, uplifting sound. You will also be able to understand how to manipulate this note formula to create the other 6 modes. This will expand your improvising vocabulary and emotional palette.
Whole step, half step formula: G-w-A-w-B-h-C-w-D-w-E-w-F#-h-G
It is mastering this note interval formula that will allow you to produce the bright sound that the major scale produces. It will build the foundation for creating the other modes within the scale.
#3: Create dynamic melodic phrasing
Start with simple melodic ideas, like hammer-ons, pull-offs, triplets, bends, and slides. All these can be found within the Ionian mode. These techniques combined will allow you to create phrasing that will bring the most out of the mode.
Phrasing example:
In this phrasing example, we use notes that come out of the mode. Hammer-ons, slides, bends, and vibrato. When you master the mode scale pattern, lead guitar licks, and put them all together, you can create dynamic melodic phrasing.
#4: Learn it in different keys
Once you know the mode in one key, you then want to learn it in other keys. What's great about the guitar is that it can be broken down into patterns. When you learn the scale pattern in one key, like say the key of G major as in the above example, you can just move the pattern to other keys. Same pattern, different key.
The C Ionian mode:
Watch The Video Lesson Below
#5: Be mindful of the notes
Because of the note interval of the Ionian mode, you can play it over any major chords in the correct key, and it will fit. When you focus on incorporating this concept, or at least acknowledging its presence, you will create the characteristic Ionian sound.
A major
C major
D major
These three major chords are found in hundreds of songs in major keys. A major, C major, D major, etc. Playing the Ionian mode in the correct position on the fretboard will allow you to sound like you know what you're doing, and you'll be able to create guitar solos that make people go "Wow, how'd you do that?"
#6: Practice Seamless transitions
The goal is to master the Ionian mode and then develop the ability to smoothly move from the Ionian mode to other modes, such as Dorian, Mixolydian, or Aeolian, by understanding their shared notes and interval structures.
The A Dorian mode:
The B Phrygian mode:
Study these modes that are in the key of G major, and then work at moving between them. This will allow you to master not only the mode scale patterns but also improve your mastery of the guitar fretboard.
#7: Dive deeper
If you'd like to know more about the Ionian mode and how it can enhance your guitar playing, I recommend you check out the book I authored and self-published. Guitar Modes: Unlock The Secrets, which will teach you exactly what you need to know.
Guitar Modes: Unlock The Secrets
Unlocking the secrets to the modes can help you discover everything you need to know to get the most out of the 7 modes within the major scale. This will allow you to expand your improvisation skills, enhance your chord vocabulary, and deepen your understanding of music theory.
The modes are great because you can do so much with them. You can use them for creating chords for playing rhythm, as well as for improvising guitar solos and melody lines. In this book, you will learn about all 7 modes in a simple step-by-step method that will show the insider secrets to each mode and how you can get the best out of them. Just grab the key, unlock the secrets, and discover a whole new world.
#8: Private instruction is also available
In addition to authoring method books, I also offer private guitar lessons. These are customized to cater to your interests and skill level, and students of all ages are welcome. Private lessons can help you excel at your learning because you get instant feedback, a better understanding of the musical concepts you are studying, and an enjoyable learning experience.
I know when I took guitar lessons, they helped me out tremendously! This is why I teach private guitar lessons as well as author method books. Because I know from personal experience, these methods work the best. So if you feel this might work for you, contact me at my website, and we'll set up a time to talk on the phone and meet online or in person.
Thanks for your time, and keep practicing.
Until our next guitar lesson, take care.
Sincerely, Dwayne Jenkins
