m7 chord
m7 chord
A natural match for many minor-seventh chords, especially ii in a major-key ii–V–I.
Guitar Scales · ChordRevelation
Dorian Mode on Guitar — Formula, Minor 7 Chords & Fretboard
Dorian is a minor mode with a natural 6. That 6 is its characteristic color and separates it immediately from Aeolian.
Interval formula / structure1–2–♭3–4–5–6–♭7
dorian modedorian mode guitardorian scale guitardorian mode formuladorian over chords
Harmony first
Where this scale fits.
ChordRevelation treats scale choice as a relationship between chord formula, function and target — not as a root-name lookup.
Modal minor vamp
Modal minor vamp
Works over static minor harmony when the natural 6 belongs to the sound.
Minor pentatonic expansion
Minor pentatonic expansion
Add 2 and natural 6 to minor pentatonic to open the Dorian color.
Fretboard practice
Turn the formula into usable guitar vocabulary.
Keep chord tones visible, compare overlays and practice toward the next chord instead of running patterns without a harmonic destination.
Practice
Target the natural 6
Do not play Dorian as generic minor; emphasize the degree that makes it Dorian.
Practice
Use ii–V–I
Practice D Dorian over Dm7 when moving to G7 → Cmaj7.
Practice
Compare Aeolian
Lower 6 to ♭6 and hear the mode change.
FAQ
Quick answers.
The interval formula is the starting point; Play Over provides the real harmonic context.
What is the formula for dorian mode?
1–2–♭3–4–5–6–♭7
How should I practice dorian mode on guitar?
Connect the interval formula to chord tones and real harmonic context, then compare positions on the fretboard instead of memorizing a single box.
Can I use dorian mode over every chord with the same root?
No. Scale choice depends on chord quality, harmonic function, key context and the next target chord, not only the root name.
ChordRevelation Play Over
See the scale inside the actual chord.
Open the approach on the fretboard, compare chord tones with tensions, keep multiple overlays visible and use the next chord as the resolution target.