Interactive piano keyboard showing G Dorian scale degrees. Click highlighted keys to play.
G dorian (G, A, B♭, C, D, E, F) has one flat in its key signature and a major 6th (E) that gives this minor mode a pastoral, folk-like warmth. It appears in jazz, folk, and singer-songwriter music where a gentle minor quality is desired. G dorian works well over Gm7 progressions and pairs naturally with acoustic guitar.
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 G Dorian are: Gm, Am, Bb, C, Dm, Edim, F. These are the chords built naturally from each degree of the scale.
What is the Dorian?
G dorian (G, A, B♭, C, D, E, F) has one flat in its key signature and a major 6th (E) that gives this minor mode a pastoral, folk-like warmth. It appears in jazz, folk, and singer-songwriter music where a gentle minor quality is desired. G dorian works well over Gm7 progressions and pairs naturally with acoustic guitar.
What notes are in the G Dorian?
The G Dorian contains the notes: G, A, Bb, C, D, E, F. This is a 7-note scale starting from G.
How many chords does the G Dorian have?
The G Dorian produces 7 diatonic chords, one built on each degree of the scale: Gm, Am, Bb, C, Dm, Edim, F.
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
G is at the 1 o'clock position. Related keys: D (dominant), C (subdominant), E (relative minor), A (supertonic), F (subtonic).