Progressions that confirm a mode · i – IV (Dorian) · I – ♭VII (Mixolydian) · i – ♭II (Phrygian)
How to hear Dorian, Mixolydian, Phrygian, and Lydian through the chords that confirm them.
Editorial content for this topic is in progress. The interactive player and pattern data are live below.
Hear the pattern
Interactive player — try the progression in any of the 18 keys, switch modes, and adjust tempo to find the feel you want.
C
D
E
F
G
A
B
C
D
E
F
G
A
B
i›Cm
100 BPM
Formulai – IV (Dorian) · I – ♭VII (Mixolydian) · i – ♭II (Phrygian)
FunctionSee "About" below for harmonic role.
Soundits distinct, mode-flavored color
Common in"Oye Como Va" — Santana · "Dear Prudence" — The Beatles · "The Simpsons" theme
Famous"Oye Como Va" — Santana · "Dear Prudence" — The Beatles · "The Simpsons" theme
The muted teal palette on this page is inspired by music-color synesthesia — modal progressions maps to muted teal, reflecting its distinct, mode-flavored color.
About Modal Progressions
How to hear Dorian, Mixolydian, Phrygian, and Lydian through the chords that confirm them.
Variations
Variation
Another way the pattern shows up in real music.
C
D
E
F
G
A
B
C
D
E
F
G
A
B
I›C
110 BPM
Variation
Another way the pattern shows up in real music.
C
D
E
F
G
A
B
C
D
E
F
G
A
B
i›Cm
100 BPM
Variation
Another way the pattern shows up in real music.
C
D
E
F
G
A
B
C
D
E
F
G
A
B
I›C
90 BPM
Famous songs & pieces
"Oye Como Va" — Santana
"Dear Prudence" — The Beatles
"The Simpsons" theme
Frequently asked questions
What is a modal progressions progression?
How to hear Dorian, Mixolydian, Phrygian, and Lydian through the chords that confirm them.
How do I use this on the piano?
Start with the player above in C. Once the pattern is in your ear, transpose to the keys you actually play in. The Roman numerals stay the same; only the chord names change.