C Dorian Mode on Bass
The C Dorian Mode (C, D, D#, F, G, A, A#) shown across the full 4-string bass fretboard. Tap any note to hear it, or open it in BassMapper to play along with a MIDI file. Free, no account needed.
About the Dorian Mode
Dorian is a minor scale with one twist: a raised 6th that brightens the darkness into something funky and hopeful. It's a favorite for funk, jazz, modal rock, and Latin bass because it grooves like a minor scale but doesn't feel heavy.
The fretboard above shows the C Dorian Mode in every position at once. Open it in BassMapper and drop in a MIDI file to watch the scale light up on the neck in real time as a song plays.
questions
What notes are in the C Dorian Mode?
The C Dorian Mode contains C, D, D#, F, G, A, A#.
What does the Dorian Mode sound like?
Minor but hopeful: a funky, jazzy brightness that keeps grooves from sounding too dark.
How do I play the Dorian Mode on bass?
Target that raised 6th to bring out the Dorian color; it's the note that separates it from a plain minor scale. It sits beautifully over minor-7 vamps.