In jazz guitar, the Mixolydian, Dorian, and Bebop scales and modes are essential for creating authentic, expressive solos and comping patterns. Each scale/mode has a unique structure and sound that connects directly to the chords and harmonic context of the music.
- Mixolydian, Dorian, and Bebop are core scales/modes in jazz improvisation.
- They provide distinctive flavors that match specific chord types and progressions.
- Mastery of these scales enables fluid, stylistically accurate playing over jazz changes.
Mixolydian Mode
The Mixolydian mode is a major mode with a dominant seventh flavor, making it ideal for dominant chords. It is built like a major scale but with a lowered seventh degree.
- Formula: 1 2 3 4 5 6 ♭7
- Used over: Dominant 7th chords (e.g., G7, C7)
- Sound: Bright, major, with a bluesy/rock edge due to ♭7
Example:
C Mixolydian = C D E F G A B♭ C
Used over: C7
The Mixolydian mode uses the formula 1 2 3 4 5 6 ♭7.
The Mixolydian mode best fits dominant 7th chords.
Dorian Mode
Dorian is a minor mode with a jazzy, soulful vibe, distinguished by its natural 6th. It suits minor chord contexts where a slightly brighter sound is desired.
- Formula: 1 2 ♭3 4 5 6 7
- Used over: Minor 7th chords (m7), especially in modal jazz
- Sound: Minor with a touch of brightness (due to natural 6th)
Example:
D Dorian = D E F G A B C D
Used over: Dm7
The Dorian mode uses the formula 1 2 ♭3 4 5 6 7.
The Dorian mode is most commonly used for minor 7th chords.
Bebop Scale
The Bebop scale adds a chromatic passing tone to a traditional mode or scale, enabling chord tones to land on strong beats for a "bebop" rhythmic feel. There are major and dominant bebop scales.
- Dominant Bebop Scale: Mixolydian + chromatic passing tone between 5 and ♭6
Formula: 1 2 3 4 5 ♭6 ♭7
- Major Bebop Scale: Ionian + chromatic passing tone between 5 and 6
Formula: 1 2 3 4 5 ♭6 6 7
Example (Dominant Bebop):
C Dominant Bebop = C D E F G A♭ B♭ C
Used over: C7
A Bebop scale adds a chromatic passing tone to its parent mode.
The primary characteristic of a Bebop scale is an added chromatic passing tone.
Conclusion
Jazz guitarists use Mixolydian, Dorian, and Bebop scales and modes to match the harmonic and rhythmic nuances of jazz, enabling sophisticated and authentic improvisation.
- Mixolydian is for dominant 7th chords, delivering a major-but-edgy sound.
- Dorian suits minor 7th contexts with its unique minor/major hybrid tone.
- Bebop scales introduce chromaticism for rhythmic complexity and smooth voice-leading.