G Dorian scale
The G Dorian scale is a 7-note dorian scale built on the root G. Its notes are G, A, B♭, C, D, E and F. Minor scale with a bright raised sixth - sophisticated and groove-friendly. This page covers the formula, fingerings, diatonic chords and common progressions that make G 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 G, the scale takes on the specific colour and pitch range of that key - making it especially useful in genres and registers where G is a comfortable tonal centre.
G Dorian on the piano
G Dorian on the guitar
G Dorian on the staff
Hear the G Dorian scale
Improvisation drone
Loop the root note as a pad to practice improvising over this scale.
Notes of the G Dorian scale
| Degree | Interval | Semitones | Note |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 1P | 0 | G |
| 2 | 2M | 2 | A |
| 3 | 3m | 3 | B♭(Bb) |
| 4 | 4P | 5 | C |
| 5 | 5P | 7 | D |
| 6 | 6M | 9 | E |
| 7 | 7m | 10 | F |
Diatonic chords of G Dorian
These are the chords that naturally form on each degree of the scale. Click a chord to open its dedicated page.
Modes from G Dorian
Each note of this scale produces a different mode with its own character.
How to use the G Dorian scale
The diatonic chords of G Dorian are: i = Gm, ii = Am, III = B♭, IV = C, v = Dm, vi° = E°, VII = F. These seven chords belong naturally to the key and are the safest harmonic vocabulary when writing songs in G 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
G Dorian appears throughout 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. Listening to music in this scale and transcribing short phrases is the fastest way to absorb its sound.
Scales related to G Dorian
Once you are comfortable with G Dorian, explore related scales to expand your vocabulary. The scales below share notes, modes or tonal centres with G Dorian and are a natural next step in your study.
Formula & step pattern
The G 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 G Dorian scale?
What is the formula for the G Dorian scale?
Is G Dorian a major or minor scale?
What chords belong to the G Dorian scale?
Which genres use G Dorian?
How do I practise the G Dorian scale?
Take G Dorian into your music
Build progressions, find chord voicings and improvise with confidence using our music tools.