Modes

Let's take a look at the 7 modes of the major scale, all starting with the root note of A.  These fingerings are a little atypical, but included to compare to the many other mode fingerings in the series.

A Ionian

The A Ionian mode is the same as the A Major Scale

A Dorian

A Dorian is the same as the A Aeolian mode (A natural minor scale) except for its raised, or natural, 6th tone

A Phrygian

A Phrygian mode is the same as the A Aeolian mode (A natural minor scale) except for its lowered 2nd tone

A Lydian

A Lydian mode is the same as the A Ionian mode (A major scale) except for its raised 4th tone

A Mixolydian

A Mixolydian mode is the same as the A Ionian mode (A major scale) except for its lowered 7th tone

A Aeolian

A Aeolian mode is also known as the A minor scale

A Locrian

A Locrian mode is the same as the A Aeolian mode (A natural minor scale) except for its lowered 2nd and 5th tones

Guitar Lesson

A Modes

A Ionian