Dorian Scale

Minor but brighter than natural minor. Jazz and folk favorite.

Interactive Scale Player

Click any note to hear it individually, or use the play button to hear the complete scale. Root note (C) is highlighted.

intermediate levelPattern: W-H-W-W-W-H-W
Dorian on Guitar
Fretboard positions and scale patterns

Fretboard Pattern (First Position)

String
0
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
E
·
F
·
G
·
A
A#
·
C
·
D
D#
B
A
A#
·
C
·
D
D#
·
F
·
G
·
G
D
D#
·
F
·
G
·
A
A#
·
C
·
D
G
·
A
A#
·
C
·
D
D#
·
F
·
A
·
C
·
D
D#
·
F
·
G
·
A
A#
E
·
F
·
G
·
A
A#
·
C
·
D
D#

Position 1 (Open)

Starting from open strings, easiest for beginners

Position 2 (3rd Fret)

Second position, extends the scale range

Master the Dorian Scale

The Dorian scale is ideal for developing players. Minor but brighter than natural minor. Jazz and folk favorite.

How to Practice the Dorian Scale

Start by learning the scale pattern slowly on your instrument. For guitar players, begin with the open position and gradually work your way up the fretboard. Piano players should focus on proper fingering and hand position. Practice daily for 10-15 minutes to build muscle memory.

Dorian Scale in Different Keys

Once you master the Dorian scale in C, try transposing it to other keys. This helps you understand the pattern and prepares you for playing with other musicians. The most common keys for this scale are G, D, A, and F.