Ab Dorian Mode
Ab – Bb – Cb – Db – Eb – F – Gb
Formula:W-H-W-W-W-H-W
Intervals:P1-M2-m3-P4-P5-M6-m7-P8
Scale Degrees:1-2-♭3-4-5-6-♭7-8
Introduction
The Ab Dorian mode is the second mode of the Gb Major scale. It has a minor sound with a raised sixth degree, characteristic of jazz, blues, and rock.
Ab Dorian Mode Notes
| Degree | Name | Note | Interval |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Tonic | Ab4 | P1 |
| 2 | Supertonic | Bb4 | M2 |
| ♭3 | Mediant | Cb5 | m3 |
| 4 | Subdominant | Db5 | P4 |
| 5 | Dominant | Eb5 | P5 |
| 6 | Submediant | F5 | M6 |
| ♭7 | Leading Tone | Gb5 | m7 |
| 8 | Octave | Ab5 | P8 |
Ab Dorian Mode — Frequently Asked Questions
What notes are in the Ab Dorian mode?
Ab Dorian contains: Ab, Bb, Cb, Db, Eb, F, Gb. Second mode of Gb Major. The raised 6th (F instead of Fb) distinguishes it from Ab Natural Minor.
How does Ab Dorian differ from Ab Natural Minor?
One note: Ab Dorian has F (major 6th), Ab Natural Minor has Fb (minor 6th).
What is the parent major scale?
Ab Dorian is the second mode of Gb Major.
How is Ab Dorian used in music?
Works over Abm7 chords. Appears in jazz and R&B.
What chords are built from Ab Dorian?
Abm, Bbm, Cb, Db, Ebm, Fdim, Gb. Major IV (Db) over Ab minor is the Dorian sound.
What songs use the Dorian mode?
So What (Miles Davis), Oye Como Va (Santana).
Practice Tips
- Raise Fb to F — hear the Dorian warmth.
- Ab Dorian over Abm7.
- Db Major (IV) over Ab minor is the signature.
- Practice over an Abm7 vamp.
- Mostly black keys — distinctive shape.
- Compare with Ab Aeolian.