Comments for The Musical Modes

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Comments for The Musical Modes

Making Videos over the Musical Mode
by: David from www.piano-play-it.com

Hi T?ufic,

Ido had a clear answer and I hope it makes it clear for you.

In the not far future I promise to create videos on the musical modes where I'll explain fully about the nature of the musical modes including how they were created (Which I'm sure will change the concept of musical modes for many of our students).

I hope you'll benefit from our written explenations in the meanwhile.

We'll keep you posted with out updates.

Regards
David
from www.piano-play-it.com

The Musical Modes
by: Ido from www.pianoplayit.com

Hi Taufic,

People get confused by the exact meaning of these two terms - scales and modes.

First, let's see - what is a scale?

Music scales are a series of notes in ascending or descending order that provide material for a musical work. In other words, a scale is a sequence of pitches.

Now, what is a mode?

A mode is a way of manipulating the notes of a scale by starting from a different point. The order of the pitches in a specific mode creates a special mood and feel.
For example, the D Dorian mode and the F Lydian mode are created by the same pitches from the C major scale. They simply start from a different point, creating a totally different feel.

You are probably familiar with the major and the minor scales since most compositions (and songs) are built upon these two scales.

Now, here is the thing that causes confusion:

The major scale is actually the Ionioan mode, and the minor scale is actually the Aeolian mode.

You see?

If a song is written in the major scale, it means that it uses the Ionian mode. When a song is written in the minor scale, it means that it uses the Aeolian mode.

As for your second question, there are songs which are completely created, based on one mode.
On the other hand, there are songs which include two different modes. For example, you may find songs in which the verse is in one mode, and the chorus is in another mode.

I hope it is much clearer now.
Anyway, don't hesitate to ask further questions.

Ido from www.pianoplayit.com

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