Interactive piano keyboard showing C Dorian scale degrees. Click highlighted keys to play.
C dorian (C, D, E♭, F, G, A, B♭) shares the key signature of B♭ major but its major 6th (A) gives it a brighter, more hopeful quality than C minor. It is the default scale for jazz m7 chord improvisation and a staple of funk and Latin grooves. C dorian sits naturally on saxophone and piano for modal jazz comping.
Dorian differs from natural minor by its major 6th — a single interval that transforms dark melancholy into hopeful brightness. This is why Dorian feels like “minor with optimism,” the go-to mode for jazz, funk, and soul grooves.
The seven diatonic modes — parallel modes starting from the same root with different interval patterns. Each mode has a unique character derived from the major scale.
The diatonic chords in C Dorian are: Cm, Dm, Eb, F, Gm, Adim, Bb. These are the chords built naturally from each degree of the scale.
What is the Dorian?
C dorian (C, D, E♭, F, G, A, B♭) shares the key signature of B♭ major but its major 6th (A) gives it a brighter, more hopeful quality than C minor. It is the default scale for jazz m7 chord improvisation and a staple of funk and Latin grooves. C dorian sits naturally on saxophone and piano for modal jazz comping.
What notes are in the C Dorian?
The C Dorian contains the notes: C, D, Eb, F, G, A, Bb. This is a 7-note scale starting from C.
How many chords does the C Dorian have?
The C Dorian produces 7 diatonic chords, one built on each degree of the scale: Cm, Dm, Eb, F, Gm, Adim, Bb.
What is the formula for the Dorian?
The Dorian follows the interval formula: W-H-W-W-W-H-W (W = whole step, H = half step).
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Position in circle of fifths
C is at the 12 o'clock position. Related keys: G (dominant), F (subdominant), A (relative minor), D (supertonic), Bb (subtonic).