Scale Mode Explorer

The Scale Mode Explorer covers 13 scales and modes including major (Ionian), natural minor (Aeolian), Dorian, Phrygian, Lydian, Mixolydian, Locrian, harmonic minor, melodic minor, pentatonic, blues, whole tone, and diminished.

A scale is a specific sequence of intervals from root to octave. A mode is a rotation of a scale starting on a different degree. The seven modes of the major scale share the same notes but start on different degrees, giving each a unique character.

The interactive piano highlights the notes of the selected scale. Click or tap any highlighted key to hear its sound. Interval labels show the distance from the root, helping you see the scale's construction.

The major scale (Ionian mode) is the foundation of Western music theory. Learn its pattern (whole-whole-half-whole-whole-whole-half) first, then derive other scales and modes from it.