E Dorian Mode
E – F# – G – A – B – C# – D
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 E Dorian mode is the second mode of the D Major scale. It has a minor sound with a raised sixth degree, characteristic of jazz, blues, and rock.
E Dorian Mode Notes
| Degree | Name | Note | Interval |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Tonic | E4 | P1 |
| 2 | Supertonic | F#4 | M2 |
| ♭3 | Mediant | G4 | m3 |
| 4 | Subdominant | A4 | P4 |
| 5 | Dominant | B4 | P5 |
| 6 | Submediant | C#5 | M6 |
| ♭7 | Leading Tone | D5 | m7 |
| 8 | Octave | E5 | P8 |
E Dorian Mode — Frequently Asked Questions
What notes are in the E Dorian mode?
E Dorian contains: E, F#, G, A, B, C#, D. Second mode of D Major. The raised 6th (C# instead of C) distinguishes it from E Natural Minor.
How does E Dorian differ from E Natural Minor?
One note: E Dorian has C# (major 6th), E Natural Minor has C (minor 6th).
What is the parent major scale?
E Dorian is the second mode of D Major.
How is E Dorian used in music?
Very common in blues, rock, and funk. E is the most popular blues key for guitar, and E Dorian is the go-to scale for improvising over Em7.
What chords are built from E Dorian?
Em, F#m, G, A, Bm, C#dim, D. Major IV (A) over E minor is the Dorian sound.
What songs use the Dorian mode?
So What (Miles Davis), Oye Como Va (Santana), and many blues-rock songs.
Practice Tips
- Raise C to C# — hear the Dorian warmth over E minor.
- E Dorian is essential for blues and rock improvisation.
- A Major (IV) over E minor is the signature sound.
- Practice over an Em7 vamp — common in blues and funk.
- E Dorian crosses into rock guitar territory.
- Compare with E Aeolian (natural minor).