D Dorian scale
The D Dorian scale is a 7-note dorian scale built on the root D. Its notes are D, E, F, G, A, B and C. Minor scale with a bright raised sixth - sophisticated and groove-friendly. This page covers the formula, fingerings, diatonic chords and common progressions that make D Dorian a great tool for improvising and composing.
Dorian pops up in jazz standards, modal rock, Celtic folk, hip-hop samples and film scores. That bright sixth adds a hopeful edge to an otherwise minor mood. Built on the root D, the scale takes on the specific colour and pitch range of that key - making it especially useful in genres and registers where D is a comfortable tonal centre.
D Dorian on the piano
D Dorian on the guitar
D Dorian on the staff
Hear the D Dorian scale
Improvisation drone
Loop the root note as a pad to practice improvising over this scale.
Notes of the D Dorian scale
| Degree | Interval | Semitones | Note |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 1P | 0 | D |
| 2 | 2M | 2 | E |
| 3 | 3m | 3 | F |
| 4 | 4P | 5 | G |
| 5 | 5P | 7 | A |
| 6 | 6M | 9 | B |
| 7 | 7m | 10 | C |
Diatonic chords of D Dorian
These are the chords that naturally form on each degree of the scale. Click a chord to open its dedicated page.
Modes from D Dorian
Each note of this scale produces a different mode with its own character.
How to use the D Dorian scale
The diatonic chords of D Dorian are: i = Dm, ii = Em, III = F, IV = G, v = Am, vi° = B°, VII = C. These seven chords belong naturally to the key and are the safest harmonic vocabulary when writing songs in D Dorian. Click any chord below to open its full diagram and progressions.
Dorian pops up in jazz standards, modal rock, Celtic folk, hip-hop samples and film scores. That bright sixth adds a hopeful edge to an otherwise minor mood.
Practice tips
Solo over a minor 7 chord using only dorian notes. That raised sixth makes phrases sound bright without losing the minor character.
Famous songs in D Dorian
These well-known tracks all use the D Dorian scale.
- 1So WhatMiles Davis
- 2Eleanor RigbyThe Beatles
- 3Oye Como VaSantana
- 4Mad WorldTears for Fears
- 5Scarborough FairSimon & Garfunkel
Famous songs
Songs and pieces that use D Dorian include “So What” - Miles Davis; “Scarborough Fair” (traditional). Studying these examples is one of the fastest ways to internalise the scale’s sound.
Scales related to D Dorian
Once you are comfortable with D Dorian, explore related scales to expand your vocabulary. The scales below share notes, modes or tonal centres with D Dorian and are a natural next step in your study.
Formula & step pattern
The D Dorian scale follows a minor scale with a raised sixth degree (W-H-W-W-W-H-W). Step pattern: W - H - W - W - W - H - W. Intervals from the root: 1P · 2M · 3m · 4P · 5P · 6M · 7m. Memorising the formula lets you transpose the scale to any other root note quickly.
Frequently asked questions
What notes are in the D Dorian scale?
What is the formula for the D Dorian scale?
Is D Dorian a major or minor scale?
What chords belong to the D Dorian scale?
Which genres use D Dorian?
How do I practise the D Dorian scale?
Take D Dorian into your music
Build progressions, find chord voicings and improvise with confidence using our music tools.