B Dorian Mode
B – C# – D – E – F# – G# – A
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 B Dorian mode is the second mode of the A Major scale. It has a minor sound with a raised sixth degree, characteristic of jazz, blues, and rock.
B Dorian Mode Notes
| Degree | Name | Note | Interval |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Tonic | B4 | P1 |
| 2 | Supertonic | C#5 | M2 |
| ♭3 | Mediant | D5 | m3 |
| 4 | Subdominant | E5 | P4 |
| 5 | Dominant | F#5 | P5 |
| 6 | Submediant | G#5 | M6 |
| ♭7 | Leading Tone | A5 | m7 |
| 8 | Octave | B5 | P8 |
B Dorian Mode — Frequently Asked Questions
What notes are in the B Dorian mode?
B Dorian contains: B, C#, D, E, F#, G#, A. Second mode of A Major. The raised 6th (G# instead of G) distinguishes it from B Natural Minor.
How does B Dorian differ from B Natural Minor?
One note: B Dorian has G# (major 6th), B Natural Minor has G (minor 6th).
What is the parent major scale?
B Dorian is the second mode of A Major.
How is B Dorian used in music?
Works over Bm7 chords. Common in rock, pop-rock, and acoustic music where A Major is a popular key.
What chords are built from B Dorian?
Bm, C#m, D, E, F#m, G#dim, A. Major IV (E) over B minor is the Dorian sound.
What songs use the Dorian mode?
So What (Miles Davis), Oye Como Va (Santana).
Practice Tips
- Raise G to G# — hear the Dorian warmth over B minor.
- B Dorian over Bm7 is common in rock and pop.
- E Major (IV) over B minor is the signature.
- Practice over a Bm7 vamp.
- B Dorian appears in acoustic and pop-rock.
- Compare with B Aeolian.