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 and its raised 6th (A♯) creates a soulful tension over C♯m7 chords. It is uncommon in pop but valued in jazz fusion and progressive rock for its sophisticated, ambiguous character. C♯ dorian is enharmonically the same as D♭ dorian.
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: C#m, D#m, E, F#, G#m, A#dim, B. 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 and its raised 6th (A♯) creates a soulful tension over C♯m7 chords. It is uncommon in pop but valued in jazz fusion and progressive rock for its sophisticated, ambiguous character. C♯ dorian is enharmonically the same as D♭ dorian.
What notes are in the C# Dorian?
The C# Dorian contains the notes: C#, D#, E, F#, G#, A#, B. 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: C#m, D#m, E, F#, G#m, A#dim, B.
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 7 o'clock position. Related keys: Ab (dominant), F# (subdominant), Bb (relative minor), Eb (supertonic), B (subtonic).