F Dorian Mode
F – G – Ab – Bb – C – D – Eb
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 F Dorian mode is the second mode of the Eb Major scale. It has a minor sound with a raised sixth degree, characteristic of jazz, blues, and rock.
F Dorian Mode Notes
| Degree | Name | Note | Interval |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Tonic | F4 | P1 |
| 2 | Supertonic | G4 | M2 |
| ♭3 | Mediant | Ab4 | m3 |
| 4 | Subdominant | Bb4 | P4 |
| 5 | Dominant | C5 | P5 |
| 6 | Submediant | D5 | M6 |
| ♭7 | Leading Tone | Eb5 | m7 |
| 8 | Octave | F5 | P8 |
F Dorian Mode — Frequently Asked Questions
What notes are in the F Dorian mode?
F Dorian contains: F, G, Ab, Bb, C, D, Eb. Second mode of Eb Major. The raised 6th (D instead of Db) distinguishes it from F Natural Minor.
How does F Dorian differ from F Natural Minor?
One note: F Dorian has D (major 6th), F Natural Minor has Db (minor 6th).
What is the parent major scale?
F Dorian is the second mode of Eb Major.
How is F Dorian used in music?
Works over Fm7 chords. Common in jazz, funk, and gospel. Eb Major is a standard jazz and brass key.
What chords are built from F Dorian?
Fm, Gm, Ab, Bb, Cm, Ddim, Eb. Major IV (Bb) over F minor is the Dorian hallmark.
What songs use the Dorian mode?
So What (Miles Davis), Oye Como Va (Santana), Evil Ways, Brick House.
Practice Tips
- Raise Db to D — hear the Dorian warmth.
- F Dorian over Fm7 is standard jazz vocabulary.
- Bb Major (IV) over F minor is the signature.
- Practice over an Fm7 vamp.
- Common in gospel and jazz.
- Compare with F Aeolian.