Online Bass Instruction with Rusty Springfield
Chords Built On Scale Intervals

Each note in a major scale has a corresponding chord, based upon the chord tones (1,3,5,7) available to it using the given key signature. They are usually signified with Roman numerals. The corresponding chord scales are called "modes", and are simply scales starting on the chosen interval, that employ the notes available from the given key signature. eg: A "D" Dorian mode uses the same notes as a C major scale, but it starts on D. Spelled out, this would be D-E-F-G-A-B-C. Notice that the interval structure creates a minor scale with natural sixth and raised seventh intervals. Can you figure out the rest of the modes in the key of C ?

In the real world, you will rarely hear the term "modes" being used, except occasionally in jazz circles. Note that the "Aeolian" mode is another name for "natural minor" scale. Remember that the "relative minor" of C is A minor? By intense deduction one can conclude that the relative major of A minor is ........that's right, C major!!

See how easy this is? It's like taking candy from a pope in the woods. (to mangle a few metaphors....)
Go to the next lesson: II-Vs