Cb Dorian Mode
Cb – Db – Ebb – Fb – Gb – Ab – Bbb
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 Cb Dorian mode is the second mode of the Bbb Major scale. It has a minor sound with a raised sixth degree, characteristic of jazz, blues, and rock.
Cb Dorian Mode Notes
| Degree | Name | Note | Interval |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Tonic | Cb4 | P1 |
| 2 | Supertonic | Db4 | M2 |
| ♭3 | Mediant | Ebb4 | m3 |
| 4 | Subdominant | Fb4 | P4 |
| 5 | Dominant | Gb4 | P5 |
| 6 | Submediant | Ab4 | M6 |
| ♭7 | Leading Tone | Bbb4 | m7 |
| 8 | Octave | Cb5 | P8 |
Cb Dorian Mode — Frequently Asked Questions
What notes are in the Cb Dorian mode?
Cb Dorian contains: Cb, Db, Ebb, Fb, Gb, Ab, Bbb. Enharmonic equivalent of B Dorian. Second mode of Bbb Major.
How does Cb Dorian differ from Cb Natural Minor?
Cb Dorian has Ab (major 6th), Cb Natural Minor has Abb (minor 6th).
What is the parent major scale?
Cb Dorian is the second mode of Bbb Major (enharmonically A Major).
How is Cb Dorian used in music?
Enharmonic equivalent of B Dorian. Musicians use B Dorian in practice.
What chords are built from Cb Dorian?
Same as B Dorian in enharmonic spelling. The major IV over Cb minor is the Dorian sound.
What songs use the Dorian mode?
So What (Miles Davis), Oye Como Va (Santana). Sound identical regardless of spelling.
Practice Tips
- Cb Dorian and B Dorian are enharmonic.
- Translate to B Dorian for easier reading.
- Keyboard notes identical.
- The raised 6th gives Dorian its warm character.
- Understanding both spellings builds fluency.
- Compare with Cb Aeolian.