G Dorian Mode
G – A – Bb – C – D – E – F
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 G Dorian mode is the second mode of the F Major scale. It has a minor sound with a raised sixth degree, characteristic of jazz, blues, and rock.
G Dorian Mode Notes
| Degree | Name | Note | Interval |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Tonic | G4 | P1 |
| 2 | Supertonic | A4 | M2 |
| ♭3 | Mediant | Bb4 | m3 |
| 4 | Subdominant | C5 | P4 |
| 5 | Dominant | D5 | P5 |
| 6 | Submediant | E5 | M6 |
| ♭7 | Leading Tone | F5 | m7 |
| 8 | Octave | G5 | P8 |
G Dorian Mode — Frequently Asked Questions
What notes are in the G Dorian mode?
G Dorian contains: G, A, Bb, C, D, E, F. Second mode of F Major. The raised 6th (E instead of Eb) distinguishes it from G Natural Minor.
How does G Dorian differ from G Natural Minor?
One note: G Dorian has E (major 6th), G Natural Minor has Eb (minor 6th).
What is the parent major scale?
G Dorian is the second mode of F Major.
How is G Dorian used in music?
Very common in jazz, funk, and blues. G Dorian over Gm7 is standard jazz vocabulary. Also common in Latin and R&B.
What chords are built from G Dorian?
Gm, Am, Bb, C, Dm, Edim, F. Major IV (C) over G 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 Eb to E — hear the Dorian warmth over G minor.
- G Dorian over Gm7 is standard jazz and funk vocabulary.
- C Major (IV) over G minor is the signature Dorian sound.
- Practice over a Gm7 vamp — extremely common in jazz.
- G Dorian is popular in Latin music and bossa nova.
- Compare with G Aeolian (natural minor).