It's hard to believe this is the same guy we see today in 2016. I like this guy! And, all of the people commenting are being nice and not putting each other down. I think I'll just stay here in 2008.
The modes are all inversions of the major scale (ionian mode). For example: Using this notation: Whole step=w, Half step=h Ionian: w,w,h,w,w,w,h Dorian: w,h,w,w,w,h,w Phrygian:h,w,w,w,h,w,w Lydian:w,w,w,h,w,w,h Mixolydian: w,w,h,w,w,h,w Aeolian (natural minor): w,h,w,w,h,w,w Locrean: h,w,w,h,w,w,w A C ionian, is a D dorian, is an E phrygian, is an F lydian, is a G myxolydian in an A aeolian is a B locrean. each mode pattern occurs withing the larger scale in each position. I hope that helps. Note: I posted this a long time ago. A lot of people found it useful. It disappeared.
Rob - I've seen numerous people attempt to explain modes. This is by far the simplest one and the only one where I actually get an immediate impact from hearing the sound of the mode Excellent and thanks very much
I have to say that for someone who hasn't been playing guitar seriously for long I applaud you for simplifying the next level of playing for me. A door has now been opened and I've entered a new room. thanks
***** So basically what you're saying is that the more you learn and understand about music the more limited you become??? Let me guess you're some kind of music genius, a modern day Mozart. Maybe you can post some videos and enlighten us all as to what unlimited music sounds like and how we can play as good as you can.
***** Typical RUclips "expert." Hands out so called wisdom, but when asked to back it up has no answer. I'm looking forward to your videos of "limitless" playing, until then I'm calling out your bullshit.
JerodimusPrime yep. Children have "limitless" playing an imagination. But there's a reason we don't have 2 year olds in any hall of fame. Your limitlessness seems like heaven to YOU (and it probably is) but then you are only 2 years old. Had someone tell me that learning scale shapes limited you and you should just be able to play any interval and note by ear. Yes, but not at breakneck speeds. That's where learning shapes and BLOCKS of notes allows you to speak w/o thinking on EVERY single note. Same deal, you SAY that but where are YOUR vids showing how it's better? hahahha
After a decade of failing to understand or even grasp the concept of modes, this video - which I watched 3 years ago - has completely changed the way I approach the guitar, or any instrument for that matter, and my songwriting/improvisation knowledge. Thank you Rob
For the first time in about 20 years, I understand what the hell modes are about. By far the simplest tutorial I have seen in all that time! Thank you!!
I think most teachers confuse the issue for beginners. The easiest way to learn the modes is by going through the following steps..... 1) While learning them remember to learn everything in the key of C (Reason is because there's no sharpes or flats) 2) Learn all 7 3-note per string modal shapes and where to play them each in the key of C (make sure they aren't the caged modes but the 3 NOTE PER STRING MODES which you can find on google). The shapes will follow a chronological order. ie - start with the mixolodian on fret 3 and then next the aeolian on fret 5, next the locrian on fret 7, next the ionian on fret 8, dorian on fret 10, phrygian on fret 12, lydian on fret 13. Learn one a day or every week and just keep playing the shape starting on the fret I just mentioned so you can visualize each pattern. 3) Once you know each shape and where to play each one make yourself aware by playing the mixolodian on fret 3 then get someone to call out a random scale shape and then switch to it immediately. Do that for all of them. After awhile you will know where all the shapes are in comparison to each other. 4) Once you have done this, put the scales into a key context. Wherever the Ionian starts, that is your key. In this context the Ionian starts on fret 8 which is a "C". Hence the key you're playing in is "C". I think it's better to get a visual familiarization with the patterns and then put into a theory context afterward. So for now don't worry about the theory. Simple!!
The vast amount of mode videos I've watched trying to understand them and nothing was going in at all but this video has literally nailed it for me! Thank you!!
Thanks Hertsman I appreciate that, great to hear that you enjoyed the lesson. I have a load more of them in my online store and I will be shooting one about modes pretty soon which may be appropriate for you ;-)
I was having trouble learning the orders of the modes, so I finally made up a way to do it, tonight! I started with the one mode that everything is based on and the one that's easiest to remember! EVERYONE knows the C Major scale! We OWN IT! And we're going to celebrate! Just like when IONIAN my first place! I go straight to the kitchen, opened the DORIAN to my PHRYGIAN, and pull the LYDIAN off the first thing I fancy. Seeing it separated, and the dishes are dirty, I have to MIXOLYDIAN. Later it goes out my AEOLIAN, and so I flush it, way down LOCRIAN, shedding a whole new light on the TAIL of each struggling MUSICIAN! I know you're all thanking me for that picture! You're WELCIAN!
OMG!!!!! I've spent sooooo long trying to get modes and have never even come close. Even baught a DVD on them and still couldnt get my head round it and just went back to pentatonics. 15 mins and I get it. What a legend!!!!!
Instead of trying to memorize 7 new patterns for the modes (each one in 7 positions! yikes!) or trying to memorize which notes are raised for which modes, just play the normal major scale using the same fingers you normally use BUT START the scale on the scale degree corresponding to the mode you want. Ooooooh! So, for D Dorian, put whatever finger you use for the 2nd scale degree of the major scale on the D and then play the major scale thru FROM THAT POINT to the octave. Viola! D Dorian. You want some D Phrygian? Put whatever finger you use for the 3rd scale degree of the major scale on the D and then play the major scale thru FROM THAT POINT to the octave. Viola! D Phrygian. Only one scale to remember, the major scale. Then, always use the same fingers for each scale degree BUT start the scale on whatever scale degree you like (to correspond with the mode). Ionian(1) Dorian(2) Phrygian(3) Lydian(4) Mixolydian(5) Aeolian(6) Locrian(7) Memory aid: I Don't Play Loud Music At Lunch
Thanks mate, I appreciate the positive feedback. Just working on my next modal lesson - "How to apply the modes", it will be in my online store next month ;-)
The way that Chappers explains modes is unorthodox, as I understand it. He shows people how to play a given mode by shifting the Ionian mode on the fretboard without changing the scale pattern. The unorthodox bit is that he doesn't tell people that by doing so they are actually changing keys, in the orthodox way of thinking. (It's obvious to a chord player.) The droning of the Ionian root note is meant to disguise this. He could have said "when you want to play a mode, always play the major scale pattern (ionian mode), but simply emphasize the note that the chosen mode would start on". For a practical player there is absolutely nothing wrong with this approach. In fact it is a slick way to go. What key one is in is irrelevant, as long as the desired musical effect is achieved. Music theorists might frown on this way of thinking about modes, but it is a quick way of grabbing a new color on the tonal palette when improvising.
Tricknologyinc What Chappers is doing is to play the Ionian mode in the key of E, then playing the Ionian mode interval sequence starting at D, while droning the E and calling the result the Dorian mode of the key of E, which it is not. That's my only point. I may not have said it well. If your notes have changed, the key has changed. All the modes in any key contain the same notes.
ironpirites I know that. That doesn't contradict what I said. You just misstated the comment I was commenting on, when you said, "?"...damn I can't see what you said, but you didn't say it right... ;) You know what... I think I misread what you wrote.... hmmm. nevermind!
Man! There's a tear In my eye I am ur life servant like morgin freeman in Robin Hood! I hav bin struggling with modes for forever! I thought I was never going to figure them out and my playing wasn't getting any better. As soon as I did the first mode change, I yelped out and and rejoicing. U have saved my soul I owe u my LIFE! Hahahah but wow man unbelievable I am truly grateful. why didn't everybody else not say that I think secretly it was like a martial arts secret and nobody was supposed to say like Bruce Lee teaching Americans. Thanx Bruce my mode training is complete I can now go into the world of Master guitarists. Glad u chopped the locks I havnt finished the video yet it was as soon as I heard the first 3 notes with the E ringing that's when I saw the light and had to stop to say ya beauty and thank God I mean you ur majesty king lordship ur honour my king.
Dude. This is an absolutely genius display of simple teaching. I've tried to understand this principle for a long time and so many people middle through a confusing mess of a description. You are concise and to the point and it serves the lesson well. Well done.
The notes are the same, but in a different order. The shape he teaches you at the beginning of the video is important to making sure it all flows together. If you try this with a different key, or a different shape it won't work. This is just to demonstrate how modes work. Not necessarily teaching how to functionally play modal music.
This video is Great, WHY, because Rob is explaining perfectly how important intervals are and throwing in some history "which is also very important". Make sure you play these scales SLOW and try to sing/hum them also and remember,have FUN.
Highly recommend vinnie moore's lesson on modes.. by far is the best lesson of modes on RUclips.. All these other vids will make you want to drive your car into a tree
I fully agree. Only Vinnie shows the PURPOSE of modes. Without learning the purpose of modes, learning modes is just an interesting but useless phenomenon.
1971SuperLead creativity isn't restricted by "purpose" anybody with half a brain and willing to learn basics is likely to learn how to use them in a more theoretical setting. as for practicality it's best to learn the scales and how they can be manipulated before you delve into the technical side of technique.
swanclipper You should watch Vinnie's video. Because understanding the true purpose of modes is wonderful, unlike trying to guess at it or being taught incorrectly, like the 99% of other videos on modes are guilty of.
1971SuperLead that i don't disagree with, but for anybody to learn they have to learn on their own terms, you may think learning can be the same for others. but it's not. after teaching guitar i know it's best to give them tips until they start asking questions, then and only then does it become useful and remembered information. otherwise it's like bombarding a 5 year old with history of the human race for a test in a month, it just becomes a task rather than something to enjoy. knowing something like this can improve the ability to know what the deeper instructions are detailing later in the learning process.
swanclipper I agree that, in teaching music, it is easy to overwhelm a student with too much information at once. There is also the problem of not going deep enough into any one subject. For instance, the root note. I doubt my teacher spent more than two minutes explaining to me what a root note is. I see that most musicians give little thought to root notes. In reality, the subject of root notes is very interesting and a book could be written about it. So I believe that to clarify the actual problem, it is not that we overwhelm the student with too much information at once, but it's actual a lack of information due to covering far too many subjects at once. We want to touch too many bases instead of just really getting deep into the first base and understanding it completely. The truth is that if we just totally understood the root note before proceeding, every other subject would be so much easier to understand. A good education starts with a solid foundation. We must fight the urge to move too fast. Yet, it would also help if the student has a clear view of how his education is planned out. All the subjects he will learn and in what order. That relieves a lot of anxiety. That's why I always use a book to teach a student. This way he can sees the order, where he is and where he still has to go. He then can see his progress and know where he is. Without that, the student doesn't see the order of subjects and will often wonder where he is in his education and wonder if he has skipped any steps. Finding a good book is the hardest part of teaching music. This is where the internet fails. As wonderful as all these RUclips videos are, none of them teach in any clear order. Where's the video that teaches the order of subjects one should learn by? Without this order we miss important steps, study subjects we aren't ready for and finally, have little idea where we are in our education of music.
Okay, this video completely changed my outlook on jazz guitar. I simply do not have the time and/or gumption to learn 27 different mode fingerings and 500,000 chord shapes. Now I too can fake jazz guitar with plain ol' 7 and maj/min7 chords and this one single pattern. You sir, have my unending gratitude for putting this up here. Thank you!!!!
I'm trying to learn modes but it makes me so furious and aggravated that I want to shave my head with a spoon and then go outside and burn my guitar and then snort the ashes. Am I just dumb, untalented, or all of the above
Hey Rob,i enjoyed this lesson because you taught the lesson showing how this modal magic as you called it works.This is all new to me,because for years i've been playing the pentatonic scale,and after awhile using the pentatonic scales sounds so predicable.I'm loving the sophisicated sound of the modes.Thanks for helping to understand the transition of adding these extra two notes to the pentatonic scale.it makes sounds so easy to attain.Thanks Rob.
OK, I am confused. He started with the E major scale. Then he moved back 2 steps to D and called that Dorian. OK, fine. But, if Dorian is the 2nd note of the major scale, wouldn't the 2nd note of the scale, in this instance, be F#?
The shape he shows here is a major scale shape rooted on the 5th string, the good old whole-whole-half-whole-whole-whole-half formula for a major scale. He starts it with the root starting on E. When he shifts this shape down two frets, the first note in the shape becomes D but the SECOND! note in the shape is now E. If you played this shape starting with the D, you'd be playing the D major scale with the same W-W-H-W-W-W-H pattern. So, the second note of D major is an E, meaning if you play D major scale over an E root you'll get the E dorian sound. That's what he means by 'the second note is dorian', if you play a major scale with the second note of that major scale as the root, you're playing dorian. The pattern also shifts to become whole-half-whole-whole-half-whole starting on E, which if you go through the intervals of the second shape you'll see they all match up. If you look up the scale chart for E Dorian and D major you'll see they're the exact same except the hilighted root notes will differ. Hope this helps!
Oh my Gooodness, thank you! I've listened to so many videos, but showing me by thumping on that one E string makes it so much clearer than playing these impressive grandiose virtuoso solo pieces where my ears can't really pick up what's happening. Thanks again. I get it now.
Talking about key gets a little tricky in the way he is describing modes. You are correct that if he were playing in the key of E, playing the root or tonic of the scale as the F# would put you in the dorian mode. However, notice that he changes keys from the first scale he plays to the second one. He maintains E as the root/tonic, but changes key from E to D by shifting back his entire major scale shape two frets (or down a whole step). In the second scale shape he is playing a D major scale, but by playing the open E string as the bass note, he defines E as the root/tonic of the scale. In this case he is defining the root/tonic as the second note of the major key, also known as playing in the Dorian mode. Make a little more sense now?
S.R Woodward D isn't Dorian in the Key of E. You're right. F# Dorian is the Dorian scale in the key of E. He's got a very unusual, and unique way of presenting modes here. Rather than go up the scale starting with the next note and extending the scale by one note, what he's doing is moving the major scale down an interval at a time, keeping the exact same scale pattern on the neck. The interesting thing is, the way he's teaching it is exactly the opposite of how modes are generally taught, moving up the major scale and learning a new pattern for each mode. When you do it that way, the sound of each new pattern is easily heard by itself. You can hear the difference in "darkness" and "brightness", or the difference between "happiness" and "sadness". In doing it the way Chapps is doing it, your ear needs that reference tone he's playing, the "drone" of the "root" note in order to hear any difference, and then it's almost like an audio illusion. It's a major scale pattern, but rather than move the root up an interval at time, he's keeping the root the same, and moving the pattern down an interval at a time. The resulting sound is the same, but the explanation is confusing because 1. he makes it sound as if you need to play a 'drone' tone in order to play a mode (which you don't) and 2. because he's saying on the same root note and moving the scale down, while the modes are named successively with the root of the mode moving up the scale one interval at a time. It's easy to see how people are getting confused here. In the key of E, normally you'd next go to F# Dorian, then to G# Phrygian, then to A Lydian, etc. Changing the scale pattern as you moved up through the modes....okay? What Capps is doing is playing the E Maj scale against and E root; then playing a D Maj scale against an E root; then playing a C# Maj scale against an E root; then a B Maj scale against an E root; etc. It's more advanced in it's approach, and a bit more difficult to understand, because he's moving down through the intervals rather than up, but what he's doing is maintaining the same major scale pattern as he's doing it. In theory, the resulting intervals against the root tone is the same, but it's terribly difficult to understand because he's 1. not changing the pattern he's playing for each "mode", and 2. he's going down, while talking about the next mode going up. Personally, I believe this is more of an advanced concept, which should only be presented after someone first learns the modes in an ascending fashion. While the fingering is indeed easier, since you only have one to learn, the concept is harder to grasp because of the aspects I've pointed out previously. Even after someone has learned the modes in an ascending fashion, which then allows them to grasp this new perspective on modes, they still have to deal with assimilating this information and figuring out how to move the major scale up or down over a chord in real time while soloing, which is quite a lot to handle. If someone says play a D Dorian solo, and you've learned the Dorian pattern, you just wail away. If someone says play a D Dorian solo and all you know is to move the C major pattern down two frets, you get a bit lost because you're expecting to hear the same major sound you're used to hearing when you play that pattern, and you don't know where the root of the new mode is without thinking about it, so, you're in a bit of a pinch. I've been playing for like, what, 40 years now.. and I agree with the other individual who commented to first check out Vinnie Moor's instructional video on Modes, then come back to this... it will make a whole lot more sense then.
Damn Chappers, I've been picking for 19 years to not so overwhelming result but decided to give theory a try finally. You've made the second mode surprisingly accessible. I salute you. You have my undying gratitude.
You made this so easy to understand! I took a year of Theory from an instructor who had me so flummoxed I simply didn't want to play anymore. Thank You and now I shall start to learn again in a new light!!! :)
Hey Rob, Awesome video. Thanks so so much for putting these tutorials on youtube. Out of all the video tutorials i find you explain and articulate exactly what i'm looking for when leaning the guitar but without making it boring or anything like that :) Much thanks!!!!
Just got me an Orange Jim Root Terror "Super Dark Terror" :) When I saw his Orange amps in this vid and mine was right next to me on the desk I was like "Yeeeah Chappers, we be thinking alike" :D
Thank you for posting Mr. Chapman. Your two videos have taken my playing to new dimensions. I struggled with this concept for years and you made it so easy. I have a buddy who's trying to learn guitar as an adult and I'm going to share this with him. Thanks again. Keep up the good work.
I hate it how every guitar instructor ever points their middle finger at us when trying to teach us scales. How rude. We're tying dude. No need to be mean about it =/
Excellent. This is the best simple explanation I have found online for understanding/showing the concept of MODES. Great job explaining a simple/insanely complex concept. Highly recommended. Thank you for taking the time to create these videos. A big help.
Rob, you are the reason I go on youtube. You are an incredible player, awesome teacher and fountain of knowledge on all things music and gear. Totally enjoy your vids.
But of what use are modes? I see no sense in them. They are but an interesting phenomenon to me. I don't play or write music thinking about modes. Modes are just an indication of where you start in the scale. I think far too much emphasis is placed on modes - I've never found any good practical application for them. They are, in my experience, an unnecessary abstraction. Know your current/active chord; know the tones in the chord; play notes related to those tones; know what chord comes next and tie those mutts together. Bam!
john peters And what mode is the minor pentatonic scale, major pentatonic scale, blues scale or major blues scale? See? What good are modes? Just give me some cool scales to work with, and stop trying to blow my mind with modes. If I want to play a Dorian scale I'll simply play a Dorian scale. I don't need to think of it as a mode. And if I want to play a minor scale in the 4th position, it doesn't matter that it looks like a Dorian in the 1st position. I'd rather think of it as the minor scale in the 4th position that a Dorian moved over to make it sound like a minor scale. To me, thinking in modes is like trying to think in patterns and/or shapes. I think that's a really bad idea. I'd rather think in scales and their intervals. A scale's intervals aren't moving around on you all time like they do in modes. I don't know. I've been playing lead guitar for forty years without ever learning modes. Oh, I know plenty of scales, but I never think in terms of modes, and I'm doing fine.
1971SuperLead if you've been playing for 40 years and your doing just fine without modes, then why are you watching a tutorial on modes ? 1- your full of shit 2- your argumental (no that's not a mode / or a word) 3- you feel like shitting on someone elses work (this guy's tutorial)
chuck jones 1. Watch my latest videos. There you can see me playing at a show for the American Cancer Society. This band is 3 or 4 months old. You know, music is a field where you can never know it all. I certainly do not know it all. I'm always seeking to improve. I enjoy improving. My band would like me to improve. Modes sounds interesting. People talk about modes a lot. But people talk about stocks as well, so I might just pass on modes. I'm not the only person who doesn't see usefulness in modes. 2. I don't argue for argument's sake. But I certainly enjoy a good debate if it leads to a new discovery for me or someone else. In this case, I'm hoping I learn something. Someone please tell me how a cover band guitarist could use modal theory. 3. What negative thing did I say about this guy or his video other than I can't see why anyone bothers to learn this stuff. It's a genuine question. I'm really hoping to hear an answer that will open my eyes to a useful purpose for modal theory.
Major formula: W W H W W W H E major scale: E F# G# A B C# D# E# I honestly don't know why the heck he even played a D... D in not even in the key of E Major therefore it isnt in any of E Major's modes... The explanation chappers gave doesnt really make any sense...
i think that last note was meant without the sharp symbol. D# to E# is not a half step. typo but the formula is right. Now if you did w h w w w h w starting on F#, you are still playing the E major but in a different mode?
Hi Rob. I know this vid is now 2000 years old. BUT I just got myself the guitar of my dream, a Telecaster 60, and picking up on playing again. Now I just wanna tell you that this type of vids really helps out a lot. So thank you for making them. Love youre co-op with The Captain, hillaryas as F**K to watch.
This explanation is so good because it works with sound not words. So many other explanations are full of words which make you think modes are complex, this makes you think its easy so you get the confidence to try it out.. Thanks Rob
Thanks Rob. Been watching Andertons for years and just came across this explanation of modes...very helpful! You helped train my ear by adding the drone note.. mind blown! Wish you all the best with your business ventures too!
this lesson was infinitely helpful and insanely easy. chappers, you explained so clearly and concisely that in the space of about ten minutes the space i had for improv increased 100 fold. you're a godsend.
Thanks Mr. Chapman! I've been playing (mostly guitar) since 1970. I play mostly by ear and have recently decided to learn some theory. Between you and Howard Goodall I've been learning some cool stuff! ( Howard has a way of sneaking the music theory in a program without you knowing it! Brilliant man that Howard :-)
Agree with the others, easily the best and easiest examples ive seen of modes and how to relate to the scale shapes in context of the root, its these little bits that are hard to find explained well, yet Chaps has delivered it in a way that anyone can understand. Instantly given me something new to jam around with. If you are self teaching guitar or your more of a physical learner than a study/reading learner then this vid and vid 2 are a must see.
Ya i have to echo everyone here really, after watching this it was like a revelation. Definitively my fav "Oh now i get it" moments Ive had in a long time. Thanks for making this so its easy to understand, and not glamorizing it.
So here I am watching Rob Chapman because I have been going to his reviews. Low and behold he is a teacher as well as sales rep and musician. You know what...I appreciate him a lot more now. Imagine a young dude educating an old dude like me. I have always played the guitar on a completely self taught basis. That means while I can play my style nicely I just can't join in with others all that often. Unless I just pick up what they are doing by ear. I can do that but I have concluded that I need to get some training on the guitar in order to expand my playing. Meaning I want to play more often with other people. I owe you Robert! Damn, who knew? A teacher!
PeterDad60 As a long drummer having played in bands since high school, some of the best jam sessions that I've had were with self taught bass & guitar players. It was all about having fun, being relaxed and communicating through music and leaving the ego's at the door. It was a great way to spend a rainy weekend and have fun doing it. I dig this guy's video's for my guitar learning and improving myself . Cheers, keep playing and have fun doing it!
I completely understand. I was the same way when I started delving into modes after playing guitar for 27 years! There's definitely more than 1 way to approach learning them, especially when you have so many keys that you can play in. Good luck in your modal endeavors!
Rob, what can I say buddy, thank you so much for posting this, I am from Ecuador and I have been playing the guitar since I was 12, anyway I did never led the modes and I realize how powerful is this tool for improvising and shaping your harmony and soloing capabilities, thanks again for posting it!
Fantastic - so clearly explained. And I just set up a loop with a clean drone guitar with some delay, modulation and chorus and practiced this until my fingers fell off.
Great fantastic lesson! I've had the modes explained before but the droning E string actually shows the musicality of the modes. Truly eye opening, thank you for this video.
I can't thank you enough for this video. I was in a real rut in terms of trying to improve my lead playing, and this has helped me immensely :) LOVE YOU. And your beard.
@jimguitarman27 It's the distance of each note from the given root that makes the difference, not where you begin or end. Study the intervals and you will understand this ;-)
Great lesson, even for intermediate level players, over-all theory is important !! for years I had a good ear and could copy solos with no problem but if you really want to get good and create your own original solos you have to learn this stuff, this is a great lesson, also if you don't know the circle of 5ths then you need to learn it first.
@sumay02 there are many different approaches to playing modes, and for me, the simplest way to think of it is by starting with a major or minor scale and raising or lowering specific notes. for example: major based modes (all starting with major scale): ionian: good old major scale mixolydian: lowered 7th lydian: raised 4th minor based modes (all starting with minor scale) aeolian: regular minor dorian: raised 6th phrygian: lowered 2nd locrian: lowered 2nd and lowered 5th hope that helps
This video has helped me a ton. Finally decided to focus on learning some of the theory for music and this is a great explanation. Thanks for taking the time to help spread the knowledge in a way that doesn't require a degree in music theory. Subscribed
That is the most sense-making explanation of modes on the Internet. Thanks, man.
well said mark! Very hard to find science/mathematics free pure music explanations of modes but vids like these do it really well!
Yes!
It's hard to believe this is the same guy we see today in 2016. I like this guy! And, all of the people commenting are being nice and not putting each other down. I think I'll just stay here in 2008.
2008 was almost 10 years ago AHH
Rob is being real. No matter what one thinks of his lessons or music, he is being Rob... and he is Rob often...
there's a lesson in that I think.
?
Totally agree, polarized politics have had a massive social impact in the last 10 years.
Facebook is the same way.
But it's 2019!
Now 2024 @@Nickbaldeagle02
The modes are all inversions of the major scale (ionian mode). For example: Using this notation: Whole step=w, Half step=h
Ionian: w,w,h,w,w,w,h
Dorian: w,h,w,w,w,h,w
Phrygian:h,w,w,w,h,w,w
Lydian:w,w,w,h,w,w,h
Mixolydian: w,w,h,w,w,h,w
Aeolian (natural minor): w,h,w,w,h,w,w
Locrean: h,w,w,h,w,w,w
A C ionian, is a D dorian, is an E phrygian, is an F lydian, is a G myxolydian in an A aeolian is a B locrean. each mode pattern occurs withing the larger scale in each position. I hope that helps. Note: I posted this a long time ago. A lot of people found it useful. It disappeared.
its actually counter productive to learn it that way...you need to look at it as intervals b3 b7th and so on...
Rob - I've seen numerous people attempt to explain modes. This is by far the simplest one and the only one where I actually get an immediate impact from hearing the sound of the mode
Excellent and thanks very much
That was probably the most informative lesson I have ever watched (commenting on both parts 1&2) and I am 48yrs old.
I have to say that for someone who hasn't been playing guitar seriously for long I applaud you for simplifying the next level of playing for me. A door has now been opened and I've entered a new room. thanks
Excellent lesson. 7 flavors of scales and it's cool how your perception changes based on what you perceive as the root. Lydian is my fav mode.
"flavours" ? you arent supposed to eat them
Dave Bostock 'Twas just a "figgah" of speech, old chap. :)
*****
So basically what you're saying is that the more you learn and understand about music the more limited you become??? Let me guess you're some kind of music genius, a modern day Mozart. Maybe you can post some videos and enlighten us all as to what unlimited music sounds like and how we can play as good as you can.
*****
Typical RUclips "expert." Hands out so called wisdom, but when asked to back it up has no answer. I'm looking forward to your videos of "limitless" playing, until then I'm calling out your bullshit.
JerodimusPrime yep. Children have "limitless" playing an imagination. But there's a reason we don't have 2 year olds in any hall of fame. Your limitlessness seems like heaven to YOU (and it probably is) but then you are only 2 years old. Had someone tell me that learning scale shapes limited you and you should just be able to play any interval and note by ear. Yes, but not at breakneck speeds. That's where learning shapes and BLOCKS of notes allows you to speak w/o thinking on EVERY single note. Same deal, you SAY that but where are YOUR vids showing how it's better? hahahha
After a decade of failing to understand or even grasp the concept of modes, this video - which I watched 3 years ago - has completely changed the way I approach the guitar, or any instrument for that matter, and my songwriting/improvisation knowledge. Thank you Rob
Holy shit man this is the best video on major modes by far. Thank you so much.
fender512 yuor wellcome bor
***** Bro! I am DOWN! ha ha :-)
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Donnie Hicks 1 month ago
ri.p. BOZEMan
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fender512 could not have said it better myself.
dalekenjarvis tjanks bro, ri.p.. R.I.p.. bozEMAN..
For the first time in about 20 years, I understand what the hell modes are about. By far the simplest tutorial I have seen in all that time! Thank you!!
I think most teachers confuse the issue for beginners. The easiest way to learn the modes is by going through the following steps.....
1) While learning them remember to learn everything in the key of C (Reason is because there's no sharpes or flats)
2) Learn all 7 3-note per string modal shapes and where to play them each in the key of C (make sure they aren't the caged modes but the 3 NOTE PER STRING MODES which you can find on google). The shapes will follow a chronological order. ie - start with the mixolodian on fret 3 and then next the aeolian on fret 5, next the locrian on fret 7, next the ionian on fret 8, dorian on fret 10, phrygian on fret 12, lydian on fret 13. Learn one a day or every week and just keep playing the shape starting on the fret I just mentioned so you can visualize each pattern.
3) Once you know each shape and where to play each one make yourself aware by playing the mixolodian on fret 3 then get someone to call out a random scale shape and then switch to it immediately. Do that for all of them. After awhile you will know where all the shapes are in comparison to each other.
4) Once you have done this, put the scales into a key context. Wherever the Ionian starts, that is your key. In this context the Ionian starts on fret 8 which is a "C". Hence the key you're playing in is "C".
I think it's better to get a visual familiarization with the patterns and then put into a theory context afterward. So for now don't worry about the theory.
Simple!!
Giles Sayer
The vast amount of mode videos I've watched trying to understand them and nothing was going in at all but this video has literally nailed it for me! Thank you!!
HAHAHAHA You just explained modes to me in < 5 minutes and I fucking get it. Absolutely amazing. No one else made it *this* clear
theodiggers RIIIIGHT?
Thanks Hertsman I appreciate that, great to hear that you enjoyed the lesson. I have a load more of them in my online store and I will be shooting one about modes pretty soon which may be appropriate for you ;-)
I was having trouble learning the orders of the modes, so I finally made up a way to do it, tonight! I started with the one mode that everything is based on and the one that's easiest to remember! EVERYONE knows the C Major scale! We OWN IT! And we're going to celebrate!
Just like when IONIAN my first place! I go straight to the kitchen, opened the DORIAN to my PHRYGIAN, and pull the LYDIAN off the first thing I fancy. Seeing it separated, and the dishes are dirty, I have to MIXOLYDIAN. Later it goes out my AEOLIAN, and so I flush it, way down LOCRIAN,
shedding a whole new light on the TAIL of each struggling MUSICIAN!
I know you're all thanking me for that picture! You're WELCIAN!
There are a couple mixed up there. Dorian comes before Phrygian (2 Dorian, 3 Phrygian).
+BER2ERKER
Crap! I had it right in my head and screwed the pooch! I don't think I can edit it now... Ah! Got it!
jamal jamalington
I keep pretty good time, but that's cause I also play drums...
+Tricknologyinc treading that just gave me a hell of a flashback, thanks...lol
The mnemonic I always used was: I Drive Pick-ups, Like Mom Always Liked.
OMG!!!!! I've spent sooooo long trying to get modes and have never even come close. Even baught a DVD on them and still couldnt get my head round it and just went back to pentatonics. 15 mins and I get it. What a legend!!!!!
Instead of trying to memorize 7 new patterns for the modes (each one in 7 positions! yikes!) or trying to memorize which notes are raised for which modes, just play the normal major scale using the same fingers you normally use BUT START the scale on the scale degree corresponding to the mode you want.
Ooooooh!
So, for D Dorian, put whatever finger you use for the 2nd scale degree of the major scale on the D and then play the major scale thru FROM THAT POINT to the octave. Viola! D Dorian.
You want some D Phrygian? Put whatever finger you use for the 3rd scale degree of the major scale
on the D and then play the major scale thru FROM THAT POINT to the octave. Viola! D Phrygian.
Only one scale to remember, the major scale. Then, always use the same fingers for each scale degree BUT start the scale on whatever scale degree you like (to correspond with the mode).
Ionian(1)
Dorian(2)
Phrygian(3)
Lydian(4)
Mixolydian(5)
Aeolian(6)
Locrian(7)
Memory aid:
I
Don't
Play
Loud
Music
At
Lunch
Thanks mate, I appreciate the positive feedback. Just working on my next modal lesson - "How to apply the modes", it will be in my online store next month ;-)
The way that Chappers explains modes is unorthodox, as I understand it. He shows people how to play a given mode by shifting the Ionian mode on the fretboard without changing the scale pattern. The unorthodox bit is that he doesn't tell people that by doing so they are actually changing keys, in the orthodox way of thinking. (It's obvious to a chord player.)
The droning of the Ionian root note is meant to disguise this.
He could have said "when you want to play a mode, always play the major scale pattern (ionian mode), but simply emphasize the note that the chosen mode would start on".
For a practical player there is absolutely nothing wrong with this approach. In fact it is a slick way to go. What key one is in is irrelevant, as long as the desired musical effect is achieved.
Music theorists might frown on this way of thinking about modes, but it is a quick way of grabbing a new color on the tonal palette when improvising.
+ironpirites It's only the IONIAN root note when playing an IONIAN mode. It's the root note of whatever mode you're playing in this demonstration.
Tricknologyinc What Chappers is doing is to play the Ionian mode in the key of E, then playing the Ionian mode interval sequence starting at D, while droning the E and calling the result the Dorian mode of the key of E, which it is not. That's my only point. I may not have said it well.
If your notes have changed, the key has changed. All the modes in any key contain the same notes.
ironpirites
I know that. That doesn't contradict what I said. You just misstated the comment I was commenting on, when you said, "?"...damn I can't see what you said, but you didn't say it right... ;)
You know what... I think I misread what you wrote.... hmmm. nevermind!
Man! There's a tear In my eye I am ur life servant like morgin freeman in Robin Hood! I hav bin struggling with modes for forever! I thought I was never going to figure them out and my playing wasn't getting any better. As soon as I did the first mode change, I yelped out and and rejoicing. U have saved my soul I owe u my LIFE! Hahahah but wow man unbelievable I am truly grateful. why didn't everybody else not say that I think secretly it was like a martial arts secret and nobody was supposed to say like Bruce Lee teaching Americans. Thanx Bruce my mode training is complete I can now go into the world of Master guitarists. Glad u chopped the locks I havnt finished the video yet it was as soon as I heard the first 3 notes with the E ringing that's when I saw the light and had to stop to say ya beauty and thank God I mean you ur majesty king lordship ur honour my king.
Ahh vintage Chappers
Was up from 2019
This video blew my mind. For years I was stuck on the pentatonic blues scale and never understood other scales.
OMG you're the guy from Sillicon Valley
I have experienced modal magic! Best lesson i've ever seen on modes, I think it's finally starting to sink in to my brain. Thank you.
The Acient Greeks called - They want their Modes back.
Dude. This is an absolutely genius display of simple teaching. I've tried to understand this principle for a long time and so many people middle through a confusing mess of a description. You are concise and to the point and it serves the lesson well. Well done.
don't the notes of the scale change by moving two frets back?
Yes, the notes change and that is what causes the different mood/feeling. However, the basic shape that he's playing stays the same. Is that any help?
The notes are the same, but in a different order. The shape he teaches you at the beginning of the video is important to making sure it all flows together. If you try this with a different key, or a different shape it won't work. This is just to demonstrate how modes work. Not necessarily teaching how to functionally play modal music.
This video is Great, WHY, because Rob is explaining perfectly how important intervals are and throwing in some history "which is also very important". Make sure you play these scales SLOW and try to sing/hum them also and remember,have FUN.
Highly recommend vinnie moore's lesson on modes.. by far is the best lesson of modes on RUclips.. All these other vids will make you want to drive your car into a tree
I fully agree. Only Vinnie shows the PURPOSE of modes.
Without learning the purpose of modes, learning modes is just an interesting but useless phenomenon.
1971SuperLead creativity isn't restricted by "purpose" anybody with half a brain and willing to learn basics is likely to learn how to use them in a more theoretical setting. as for practicality it's best to learn the scales and how they can be manipulated before you delve into the technical side of technique.
swanclipper You should watch Vinnie's video. Because understanding the true purpose of modes is wonderful, unlike trying to guess at it or being taught incorrectly, like the 99% of other videos on modes are guilty of.
1971SuperLead that i don't disagree with, but for anybody to learn they have to learn on their own terms, you may think learning can be the same for others. but it's not.
after teaching guitar i know it's best to give them tips until they start asking questions, then and only then does it become useful and remembered information.
otherwise it's like bombarding a 5 year old with history of the human race for a test in a month, it just becomes a task rather than something to enjoy. knowing something like this can improve the ability to know what the deeper instructions are detailing later in the learning process.
swanclipper I agree that, in teaching music, it is easy to overwhelm a student with too much information at once. There is also the problem of not going deep enough into any one subject. For instance, the root note. I doubt my teacher spent more than two minutes explaining to me what a root note is. I see that most musicians give little thought to root notes. In reality, the subject of root notes is very interesting and a book could be written about it.
So I believe that to clarify the actual problem, it is not that we overwhelm the student with too much information at once, but it's actual a lack of information due to covering far too many subjects at once. We want to touch too many bases instead of just really getting deep into the first base and understanding it completely. The truth is that if we just totally understood the root note before proceeding, every other subject would be so much easier to understand.
A good education starts with a solid foundation. We must fight the urge to move too fast. Yet, it would also help if the student has a clear view of how his education is planned out. All the subjects he will learn and in what order. That relieves a lot of anxiety.
That's why I always use a book to teach a student. This way he can sees the order, where he is and where he still has to go. He then can see his progress and know where he is. Without that, the student doesn't see the order of subjects and will often wonder where he is in his education and wonder if he has skipped any steps.
Finding a good book is the hardest part of teaching music.
This is where the internet fails. As wonderful as all these RUclips videos are, none of them teach in any clear order. Where's the video that teaches the order of subjects one should learn by? Without this order we miss important steps, study subjects we aren't ready for and finally, have little idea where we are in our education of music.
Okay, this video completely changed my outlook on jazz guitar. I simply do not have the time and/or gumption to learn 27 different mode fingerings and 500,000 chord shapes. Now I too can fake jazz guitar with plain ol' 7 and maj/min7 chords and this one single pattern. You sir, have my unending gratitude for putting this up here. Thank you!!!!
I'm trying to learn modes but it makes me so furious and aggravated that I want to shave my head with a spoon and then go outside and burn my guitar and then snort the ashes.
Am I just dumb, untalented, or all of the above
Nathan Bonde You okay man?
*pats back* just hang in there buddy
absolutezero951 You think we should tell someone or just have him handle it himself?
Zachary Walsh We should wait a bit and if he doesnt handle it we will tell his parents
absolutezero951 Na i figure his parents might just make it worse. Maybe we should get him a counselor
Hey Rob,i enjoyed this lesson because you taught the lesson showing how this modal magic as you called it works.This is all new to me,because for years i've been playing the pentatonic scale,and after awhile using the pentatonic scales sounds so predicable.I'm loving the sophisicated sound of the modes.Thanks for helping to understand the transition of adding these extra two notes to the pentatonic scale.it makes sounds so easy to attain.Thanks Rob.
OK, I am confused. He started with the E major scale. Then he moved back 2 steps to D and called that Dorian. OK, fine. But, if Dorian is the 2nd note of the major scale, wouldn't the 2nd note of the scale, in this instance, be F#?
Me as well......
The shape he shows here is a major scale shape rooted on the 5th string, the good old whole-whole-half-whole-whole-whole-half formula for a major scale. He starts it with the root starting on E. When he shifts this shape down two frets, the first note in the shape becomes D but the SECOND! note in the shape is now E. If you played this shape starting with the D, you'd be playing the D major scale with the same W-W-H-W-W-W-H pattern. So, the second note of D major is an E, meaning if you play D major scale over an E root you'll get the E dorian sound. That's what he means by 'the second note is dorian', if you play a major scale with the second note of that major scale as the root, you're playing dorian. The pattern also shifts to become whole-half-whole-whole-half-whole starting on E, which if you go through the intervals of the second shape you'll see they all match up. If you look up the scale chart for E Dorian and D major you'll see they're the exact same except the hilighted root notes will differ. Hope this helps!
He means the second note of the shape he's playing goes back to the E hence the 2nd mode because the second note is the root.
Ian Westerbeck thank you!
dorian is a minor scale should be considered also, learn which modes are major or minor
Oh my Gooodness, thank you! I've listened to so many videos, but showing me by thumping on that one E string makes it so much clearer than playing these impressive grandiose virtuoso solo pieces where my ears can't really pick up what's happening. Thanks again. I get it now.
a bit confused as to why D is Dorian in the key of E... wouldn't F# be Dorian, in the key of E, since that's the second note of the major scale in E?
Talking about key gets a little tricky in the way he is describing modes. You are correct that if he were playing in the key of E, playing the root or tonic of the scale as the F# would put you in the dorian mode. However, notice that he changes keys from the first scale he plays to the second one. He maintains E as the root/tonic, but changes key from E to D by shifting back his entire major scale shape two frets (or down a whole step). In the second scale shape he is playing a D major scale, but by playing the open E string as the bass note, he defines E as the root/tonic of the scale. In this case he is defining the root/tonic as the second note of the major key, also known as playing in the Dorian mode. Make a little more sense now?
S.R Woodward D isn't Dorian in the Key of E. You're right. F# Dorian is the Dorian scale in the key of E.
He's got a very unusual, and unique way of presenting modes here. Rather than go up the scale starting with the next note and extending the scale by one note, what he's doing is moving the major scale down an interval at a time, keeping the exact same scale pattern on the neck.
The interesting thing is, the way he's teaching it is exactly the opposite of how modes are generally taught, moving up the major scale and learning a new pattern for each mode. When you do it that way, the sound of each new pattern is easily heard by itself. You can hear the difference in "darkness" and "brightness", or the difference between "happiness" and "sadness".
In doing it the way Chapps is doing it, your ear needs that reference tone he's playing, the "drone" of the "root" note in order to hear any difference, and then it's almost like an audio illusion. It's a major scale pattern, but rather than move the root up an interval at time, he's keeping the root the same, and moving the pattern down an interval at a time.
The resulting sound is the same, but the explanation is confusing because 1. he makes it sound as if you need to play a 'drone' tone in order to play a mode (which you don't) and 2. because he's saying on the same root note and moving the scale down, while the modes are named successively with the root of the mode moving up the scale one interval at a time.
It's easy to see how people are getting confused here.
In the key of E, normally you'd next go to F# Dorian, then to G# Phrygian, then to A Lydian, etc. Changing the scale pattern as you moved up through the modes....okay?
What Capps is doing is playing the E Maj scale against and E root; then playing a D Maj scale against an E root; then playing a C# Maj scale against an E root; then a B Maj scale against an E root; etc.
It's more advanced in it's approach, and a bit more difficult to understand, because he's moving down through the intervals rather than up, but what he's doing is maintaining the same major scale pattern as he's doing it. In theory, the resulting intervals against the root tone is the same, but it's terribly difficult to understand because he's 1. not changing the pattern he's playing for each "mode", and 2. he's going down, while talking about the next mode going up.
Personally, I believe this is more of an advanced concept, which should only be presented after someone first learns the modes in an ascending fashion.
While the fingering is indeed easier, since you only have one to learn, the concept is harder to grasp because of the aspects I've pointed out previously.
Even after someone has learned the modes in an ascending fashion, which then allows them to grasp this new perspective on modes, they still have to deal with assimilating this information and figuring out how to move the major scale up or down over a chord in real time while soloing, which is quite a lot to handle.
If someone says play a D Dorian solo, and you've learned the Dorian pattern, you just wail away. If someone says play a D Dorian solo and all you know is to move the C major pattern down two frets, you get a bit lost because you're expecting to hear the same major sound you're used to hearing when you play that pattern, and you don't know where the root of the new mode is without thinking about it, so, you're in a bit of a pinch.
I've been playing for like, what, 40 years now.. and I agree with the other individual who commented to first check out Vinnie Moor's instructional video on Modes, then come back to this... it will make a whole lot more sense then.
S.R Woodward That's what I thought.
Yep it seems like every video I watch explains modes completely different and it's fuckin frustrating.
Damn Chappers, I've been picking for 19 years to not so overwhelming result but decided to give theory a try finally. You've made the second mode surprisingly accessible. I salute you. You have my undying gratitude.
i saw this video 7 years too late
Dave's not here, man
Duke Duke I got you beat with 10 years lol
@@michaelenochs5024and me with 15
You made this so easy to understand! I took a year of Theory from an instructor who had me so flummoxed I simply didn't want to play anymore. Thank You and now I shall start to learn again in a new light!!! :)
A lot of fret buzz on that PRS
Hey Rob, Awesome video. Thanks so so much for putting these tutorials on youtube. Out of all the video tutorials i find you explain and articulate exactly what i'm looking for when leaning the guitar but without making it boring or anything like that :) Much thanks!!!!
dat orange amp...
Just got me an Orange Jim Root Terror "Super Dark Terror" :) When I saw his Orange amps in this vid and mine was right next to me on the desk I was like "Yeeeah Chappers, we be thinking alike" :D
Thank you for posting Mr. Chapman. Your two videos have taken my playing to new dimensions. I struggled with this concept for years and you made it so easy. I have a buddy who's trying to learn guitar as an adult and I'm going to share this with him. Thanks again. Keep up the good work.
I hate it how every guitar instructor ever points their middle finger at us when trying to teach us scales. How rude. We're tying dude. No need to be mean about it =/
Own sorry, he didn't wanted to hurt your feelings little flower
Excellent. This is the best simple explanation I have found online for understanding/showing the concept of MODES. Great job explaining a simple/insanely complex concept. Highly recommended. Thank you for taking the time to create these videos. A big help.
rob look like jesus
Or does Jesus look like Rob. JK lol.
+1
Rob, you are the reason I go on youtube. You are an incredible player, awesome teacher and fountain of knowledge on all things music and gear. Totally enjoy your vids.
But of what use are modes? I see no sense in them. They are but an interesting phenomenon to me. I don't play or write music thinking about modes.
Modes are just an indication of where you start in the scale. I think far too much emphasis is placed on modes - I've never found any good practical application for them. They are, in my experience, an unnecessary abstraction. Know your current/active chord; know the tones in the chord; play notes related to those tones; know what chord comes next and tie those mutts together. Bam!
john peters And what mode is the minor pentatonic scale, major pentatonic scale, blues scale or major blues scale? See? What good are modes? Just give me some cool scales to work with, and stop trying to blow my mind with modes. If I want to play a Dorian scale I'll simply play a Dorian scale. I don't need to think of it as a mode. And if I want to play a minor scale in the 4th position, it doesn't matter that it looks like a Dorian in the 1st position. I'd rather think of it as the minor scale in the 4th position that a Dorian moved over to make it sound like a minor scale.
To me, thinking in modes is like trying to think in patterns and/or shapes. I think that's a really bad idea. I'd rather think in scales and their intervals. A scale's intervals aren't moving around on you all time like they do in modes.
I don't know. I've been playing lead guitar for forty years without ever learning modes. Oh, I know plenty of scales, but I never think in terms of modes, and I'm doing fine.
1971SuperLead if you've been playing for 40 years and your doing just fine without modes, then why are you watching a tutorial on modes ?
1- your full of shit
2- your argumental (no that's not a mode / or a word)
3- you feel like shitting on someone elses work (this guy's tutorial)
chuck jones 1. Watch my latest videos. There you can see me playing at a show for the American Cancer Society. This band is 3 or 4 months old.
You know, music is a field where you can never know it all. I certainly do not know it all. I'm always seeking to improve. I enjoy improving. My band would like me to improve. Modes sounds interesting. People talk about modes a lot. But people talk about stocks as well, so I might just pass on modes. I'm not the only person who doesn't see usefulness in modes.
2. I don't argue for argument's sake. But I certainly enjoy a good debate if it leads to a new discovery for me or someone else. In this case, I'm hoping I learn something. Someone please tell me how a cover band guitarist could use modal theory.
3. What negative thing did I say about this guy or his video other than I can't see why anyone bothers to learn this stuff. It's a genuine question. I'm really hoping to hear an answer that will open my eyes to a useful purpose for modal theory.
Well you see....why are you here? If you see "no sense " in understanding modes then go away.
I'm sure you're way better than rob too.
Josh Mooney What are you? 14?
This video is great.I took 4 years of theory and this is by far the easiest version ive seen for understanding.
Major formula: W W H W W W H
E major scale: E F# G# A B C# D# E#
I honestly don't know why the heck he even played a D... D in not even in the key of E Major therefore it isnt in any of E Major's modes...
The explanation chappers gave doesnt really make any sense...
Well seeing as how there isn't an E# in E major either...
That is the modes, babe
i think that last note was meant without the sharp symbol. D# to E# is not a half step. typo but the formula is right. Now if you did w h w w w h w starting on F#, you are still playing the E major but in a different mode?
I never thought of it like that. This was an awesome lesson. It clicked in my mind and stopped being theory and started being music.
can't say sixth tho jkjk
This is the simplest description of modes that i have ever read!!!
That's a good thing by the way. Awesome.
Hi Rob. I know this vid is now 2000 years old. BUT I just got myself the guitar of my dream, a Telecaster 60, and picking up on playing again. Now I just wanna tell you that this type of vids really helps out a lot. So thank you for making them. Love youre co-op with The Captain, hillaryas as F**K to watch.
This explanation is so good because it works with sound not words. So many other explanations are full of words which make you think modes are complex, this makes you think its easy so you get the confidence to try it out..
Thanks Rob
For me, that had to be the best and easiest lesson on modes I have watched to date.
Thanks Rob. Been watching Andertons for years and just came across this explanation of modes...very helpful! You helped train my ear by adding the drone note.. mind blown! Wish you all the best with your business ventures too!
Best explanation of modes on RUclips! Thanks Mr. Chappers.
this lesson was infinitely helpful and insanely easy. chappers, you explained so clearly and concisely that in the space of about ten minutes the space i had for improv increased 100 fold. you're a godsend.
You, my friend, are my new hero! That was by far the most simplist and effective way to enrich my life.
Long live the internet and RUclips for bringing us these treasures of knowledge.
This is by far my favourite video Rob did. I understood the modes perfectly after watching this.
Thanks Mr. Chapman! I've been playing (mostly guitar) since 1970. I play mostly by ear and have recently decided to learn some theory. Between you and Howard Goodall I've been learning some cool stuff! ( Howard has a way of sneaking the music theory in a program without you knowing it! Brilliant man that Howard :-)
Agree with the others, easily the best and easiest examples ive seen of modes and how to relate to the scale shapes in context of the root, its these little bits that are hard to find explained well, yet Chaps has delivered it in a way that anyone can understand. Instantly given me something new to jam around with. If you are self teaching guitar or your more of a physical learner than a study/reading learner then this vid and vid 2 are a must see.
I watched this last night and had to come back here to comment on how EXCELLENT it was!
Thanks again for the lesson Rob!
You just changed my musical live and I can't thank you enough.
Cheers.
Ya i have to echo everyone here really, after watching this it was like a revelation. Definitively my fav "Oh now i get it" moments Ive had in a long time. Thanks for making this so its easy to understand, and not glamorizing it.
So here I am watching Rob Chapman because I have been going to his reviews. Low and behold he is a teacher as well as sales rep and musician. You know what...I appreciate him a lot more now. Imagine a young dude educating an old dude like me. I have always played the guitar on a completely self taught basis. That means while I can play my style nicely I just can't join in with others all that often. Unless I just pick up what they are doing by ear. I can do that but I have concluded that I need to get some training on the guitar in order to expand my playing. Meaning I want to play more often with other people. I owe you Robert! Damn, who knew? A teacher!
PeterDad60 As a long drummer having played in bands since high school, some of the best jam sessions that I've had were with self taught bass & guitar players. It was all about having fun, being relaxed and communicating through music and leaving the ego's at the door. It was a great way to spend a rainy weekend and have fun doing it. I dig this guy's video's for my guitar learning and improving myself . Cheers, keep playing and have fun doing it!
arkansaswookie Thanks for your comment. I appreciate your insight. I agree being self taught is fine.
I can't believe you put this much effort in just so you could flip me off.
I completely understand. I was the same way when I started delving into modes after playing guitar for 27 years! There's definitely more than 1 way to approach learning them, especially when you have so many keys that you can play in. Good luck in your modal endeavors!
this is probably the best approach to explain mode i ve ever seen mate!
Far and away the best explanation I've ever heard.
Rob, what can I say buddy, thank you so much for posting this, I am from Ecuador and I have been playing the guitar since I was 12, anyway I did never led the modes and I realize how powerful is this tool for improvising and shaping your harmony and soloing capabilities, thanks again for posting it!
man you definitely made me really safely 100% understand what the modes are all about. great work! I do thank you!
Fantastic - so clearly explained. And I just set up a loop with a clean drone guitar with some delay, modulation and chorus and practiced this until my fingers fell off.
Great fantastic lesson! I've had the modes explained before but the droning E string actually shows the musicality of the modes. Truly eye opening, thank you for this video.
Picked my guitar up after 4 years! Back to the basics! This is so incredibly helpful :)
I can't thank you enough for this video. I was in a real rut in terms of trying to improve my lead playing, and this has helped me immensely :) LOVE YOU. And your beard.
This is probably the best and most useful explanation of modal theory I've seen/heard. Thank you sir
I've got to agree with the other posters here....IMO, this is the best lesson on modes i've ever seen or read.....Thanks Rob
Thank You. I'm trying to make modes sink into my old, but working head. This is really helpful.
It helps to have an amp with an aux in, and a loop pedal. You can practice the modes over your own rhythms. Good stuff.
Its nice to go back after a decade hes taugh me with the modes.
this helped me immensely as well. I had just been playing modes because they sounded different and I had no idea why.
@kongersthequick No problem my friend, glad I could help ;-)
Thanks mate for this lesson, I really like the sound. You have really given a whole new dimension to my playing.
Thanks so much dude!! This really changed my musical life.Now i can shred all across the neck and i just learned these modes 10 minutes ago.
thanks so much for posting this. Never really thought of looking at modes this way but you really broke it down for me
Holy crap mr chapman you have tripped me out once again!! Soaking up the knowledge
@jimguitarman27 It's the distance of each note from the given root that makes the difference, not where you begin or end. Study the intervals and you will understand this ;-)
Holy smokes, 6:41 and it is all explained just by listening. I am totally blown away by the difference in sound. Wow!
Possibly the best explanation (with! examples) to explain modes. Thanks for this :)
Great lesson, even for intermediate level players, over-all theory is important !! for years I had a good ear and could copy solos with no problem but if you really want to get good and create your own original solos you have to learn this stuff, this is a great lesson, also if you don't know the circle of 5ths then you need to learn it first.
Hey man, a lot of lessons online suck. And you teach effectively and you're funny, so hell yeah man. Props to you.
Helpful and funny... Hard to find good tutorials that have both humour and useful tips. Thanks -- this was very helpful!!
I can not tell you how much I appreciate this info
Great. Really great lesson and bonus points for reference to that old TV show.
@sumay02 there are many different approaches to playing modes, and for me, the simplest way to think of it is by starting with a major or minor scale and raising or lowering specific notes. for example:
major based modes (all starting with major scale):
ionian: good old major scale
mixolydian: lowered 7th
lydian: raised 4th
minor based modes (all starting with minor scale)
aeolian: regular minor
dorian: raised 6th
phrygian: lowered 2nd
locrian: lowered 2nd and lowered 5th
hope that helps
This video has helped me a ton. Finally decided to focus on learning some of the theory for music and this is a great explanation. Thanks for taking the time to help spread the knowledge in a way that doesn't require a degree in music theory. Subscribed
Thanks Rob, great video! Cheers Johan
Best guitar videos available...and they make sense. thanks a mil!