I've now released a 'Part II' to this video that hopefully clears up a few of the points I hadn't explained well or skipped over in this video. Once you've watched this video, check it out: ruclips.net/video/ZnD5F6o7B1g/видео.html
This unlocked something in my music theory brain that I knew need to be unlocked but I didn't know exactly what it was yet, but knew it was there and it was this. Thank you.
I'll add, your mic is really good. Maybe you could block the ambient sound from the keyboard keys with a pop filter or cone? Only trying to help if it's useful to you.
You have a gift to explain things well. The words used, tone, examples, pace, sequencing... Also the lighting and camera, a joy to watch. Thank you for sharing.
Its always about the root note. The root of the scale. Everything you're hearing and making sense of in music, you're always aware of where that tonal centre is. (Leaving out modulation for the moment) Mis-training modes starts with the teacher saying something like "C major (Ionian) is exactly the same scale as C- minor (Aolian)." Or they say something like Im afraid "if you start with the second note that is a dorian mode" without mentioning that in-fact it's E dorian not D Dorian. So yes it's a dorian scale. But it's a completely different scale, with a different root. The fact it uses the same notes is incidental, and has no musical impact. All the relationships within that scale are different to our ears. To explain them as being the same scale is what leads people off on the wrong path and leads to much confusion, Each mode has different intervals and different chords, and we are always aware of where the root note is when we are listening (and hopefully playing). The history of where these diatonic modal scales come from is as ancient as their names, they are firmly set within us.
Preach! 👏 Yeah, completely agree, I think maybe there’s a lack of understanding from some teachers too that just keeps getting passed down. Thanks for the comment.
The Ionians were the Greeks. I think you meant C Major and A minor. Those are the same. If you're in Major it'll always be the 6th note in the scale or 3 semi tones down. C Major and C minor are parallels of each other.
So like how do you stay within the tonal center for say a melody? Makes sense because even when you know music theory if you're not applying functional harmony then it sounds incomplete.
@@AFRoSHEENT3ARCMICHAEL69 Thanks for the comments. I think it's kind of about where you start and end and which notes you're accentuating in between. I've got another video on modes that I'm about release and I talk a bit about writing a song within a mode and I think it might cover that a little bit.
@@AFRoSHEENT3ARCMICHAEL69 Hey, I've just released that modes follow up video I mentioned which talks a bit about writing a melody within a mode if you wanted to check it out. Cheers
In guitar, modes are used as connectors after melody with tension notes to a resolving melody, usually going to the end chord of a stanza. In improvisation solos, modes form the licks joined in between melodies.
I've said this before Michael,the way you explain whatever it may be in your videos is so very enlightening. Please Keep up these fantastic tutorials! They really are so thoroughly explained in an easy way one can understand. You really have a talent for this and I love the humour. Thank so very much.
The RUclips algorithm kindly put this video into my feed. I love finding other music theory teachers on YT. Interesting take on using modes. I tend to think, 'I'm going to write a song in Dorian' and that's it. Or, how can I make this sound different, I know, I'll stick a Lydian tritone here. I've been trying to find songs IN Mixolydian, and having a hard time because a lot of them just have a portion in that mode. That should have been my clue. Entire songs don't have to be in the same mode. It's ok, to mix and match for the sake of the song. Keep up the good work!
Hi Jean! Thank you so much for this comment and thank you RUclips algorithm for introducing us! I'm sure there's still lots about modes that I've not uncovered yet on the music journey and I think we all seem to come at the same things from different angles but I do enjoy thinking about these things! Thanks for stopping by!
I was completely lost on modes for years. They all seemed to be saying nothing in a complicated way. You are EXACTLY correct about finding the relationships of the position of the starting note not very helpful - and it is better to think about the accidentals. Just today my piano teacher straightened me out on the modes and said almost exactly the same thing you said. But I LOVE your horizontal / vertical analogy. You saying that - along with my lesson today - opened up brand new vistas for me. Horizontal and Vertical... That is almost poetic. And then to think about the modes relating to each other horizontally like a string... Now THAT is how a fine fabric is woven, and I believe that is what I hear (and was confused why I couldn't do) what someone like McCoy Tyner does (or, did 😢). Thanks for this. I forwarded it to my teacher.
Hi Brent! Thanks for your comment. I'm glad you enjoyed the video. This was my first educational video and looking back I can see that it was a bit all over the place and had a few gaps so I'm glad that you were still able to get some value from it. Cheers 👍
It all pretty much comes down to options, one can take a scale with them or use the mode that "fits " the root of the chord or play some outside notes to add spice/flavor,either way it's all jazz
My ever struggle is modes.I allways understood them intheory, but like you said along the way you start growing a fealig, and it come naturally. Looved it.
This is so much better than when I enrolled in Berklee in the 70s. I asked my tutor assigned to me, what a scale is. His answer, you'll have to go to the mountain top to find the answer. Thanks for making this more accessible and actually interesting!
As a programmer I see music as a similar concept. - There is an underlying system (theory) - Libraries provide access to the system (keys) - Each library has related, but different, functions (modes/scales) - These come together to create frameworks (chords) - We use these to build things (music) - And finally, there is always a deadline (rhythm)
Now this is something I could actually understand and use. You have to love educated Jazz players and the methods they use to explain things. I appreciated this, thank you.
You addressed the very question that I've been wanting to resolve - how to actually use modes, rather than merely understanding them in isolation (much, as you say, like knowing scales: how to use the information in playing). And you've done so clearly, in a way that even if I wasn't familiar with some of the terms, I could follow your line (the annotations are also very timely and clear.. thanks for those!) You tread a very good line, crediting the viewer with intelligence but with a desire (and need) for explanation and examples. I was very pleased to be able to understand exactly why a Lydian relates to maj7 sharp 11, so your examples affirmed learning as well. I think one of the mistakes I've made is trying to assign the modes from the tonic to each chord, rather than working from the tonic of each chord (for example, if a piece is in the key of D, then using a mode of D for every chord that follows). But that's me, running before I can walk. In any event, I'll watch this video many times, I predict, to absorb and gradually internalise, what you're saying so well. Thank you!
Rob, it was so good to read your comment, thank you for taking the time to share. I’m so pleased that my videos are reaching people like you who are able to find some value in them and make sense of my ramblings! Hopefully plenty more videos to come if I can find things worth talking about! Cheers. MK
I really enjoyed the Video, I had a LIGHT BULB moment the other month. If you look the circle of 5ths. And you look at ever key that has a C natural in. One choice is obviously C major. Other choices are G F Bb Eb Ab Db/C#. Moving on position to the right you get G lydian going left you have Bb dorian F mixolydian Eb aeolian you can work the rest out. So if you just picture the circle of 5th. You know if you play a G scale over a C drone you get Lydian. Or you can just explore up and down and remember you only have one sharp the F# which is the lydian note the #4.
@@michaelkeithson This is more or less how I think of modes. I play guitar, and I know scale shapes, but I don't read music or tab. By noodling over the "wrong" scale position, whatever I'm playing instantly evokes whichever mode corresponds with the difference in the position. Since I usually improvise, then sometimes it sounds great. Often, it sounds like someone practising arpeggios, though!
@@ParaBellum2024have you noticed that the first four notes of the ionian mode has the same finger pattern as the first four notes of the mixolydian mode regardless of key? The same is true for the dorian-aeolian and the phrygian-locrian modes. (Assuming you start each with the first finger)
You had 999 subscribers when i watched this. My seeing that, after really appreciating this video very much, and knowing "I" would be sub #1000 was enough for me to know I've discovered a place I'm supposed to be! Thank you for your work here, Michael! I've played all my life, and "professionally" on some big stages over the past 20 years. But I've always known my jazz chops are very lacking (although somewhat aware of the theory/mechanics). Realizing jazz is (besides classical) the "brainy" side of music, I think I'm finally beginning to step into that higher musical awareness, like I've always WANTED to do, but just haven't. That changes... now! You'll be part of that, Michael, through your videos and I thank you for sharing your heart's talent! It effects lives.. in real ways. May ad revenue pour your way! 😄 Blessings from across the pond!
Steve! Welcome to the family and thank you for being my 1000th subscriber!!!! It's been really great seeing all the love and encouragement after posting this video. I'm going to do my best to continue giving value to folks like you - I just hope I can work out what that might be! Thanks for your leaving your comment, it means a lot. Cheers. 🎹
Learning modes in this way and applying them to improvisation the way you do is infinitely more useful than how it is traditionally taught. Thanks for this. This is the first time I’ve seen you. I’m gonna subscribe and look for content on how you craft your improvised melodies. Quite brilliantly I might add.
This was probably the most challenging video I’ve encountered from you thus far but you still did a great job explaining it 🤞🏾 I’ll definitely come back to it once I have a better grasp on these more chord relationships
Hey Samuel, this was the first educational video like this that I made and I don't think I did the best job of explaining things and potentially tried to fit in too much, hence the follow up video, so I'm not surprised this was a little harder to digest. Thanks for the comment though.
Fantastic explanation, I've been trying to grasp this for so long and until now hearing you explaining the verticality of the scales and how you applied them with 7th chords everything made much more sense. It's crazy to see how fast you can draw from a seemingly unrelated scale (compared to the root ionian) so fast. Lots of practice :)
Yep, the perspective i got after i realized i can play (program, I'm not play any physical instruments) modes over scales was just mind blowing. I always find odd how people praise, say dorian and when i try to make dorian piece itt always was... Meh. It was because i did EVERYTHING i dorian. Melody, harmonies, from the beginning to end. The moment i started to experiment with smearing modes over simple major and minor chords things get immediately interesting, and i can't wait to implement it in... techno as soon i would be able to 😅
My method of teaching theory goes this was. First teach modes in relation to the major key, than once that can play with it for a while I introduce differences in minor modes in relation to natural minor and major to major scale. Once we have that we isolate the characteristic notes example 2 and 6 in minor and 4 and 7 in major. Then I delve into getting them to describe the sound of those characteristic notes. Example Lydian being surreal or dream state or alien world. I usually get them to identify those characteristic notes so it’s more personal to the student. Then teach them to use the characteristic notes as colour instead of as a whole and use that colour to paint major and minor pentatonics. It seems to make players less pattern or fully diatonic. IMHO it makes them a much more rounded player.
Thanks Maria! Definitely more similar videos to come. Do you have any specific topics in mind that you'd like me to cover?! Thanks for the encouragement! MK
Hello, the part of the video where you suggest people practice the modes with the same tonic beginning -around 2:03 in the video - is just brilliant. No one has ever pointed that out, nor have they instructed that a musician know a particular mode by constructing the mode individually, I.e., knowing where the flats are in the scale. Thank you for a different perspective…now, I gotta go practice! =] oh, and I play the harp, but also have access to a piano as well…
This is really helpful. I especially like that you didn't choose C major to demonstrate the modes and that you started each mode on the same root note. So may explanations of modes use C and then move up the scale for each successive mode so that they just feel like different scales. This video, especially the section with the demonstration over a pedal drone, makes much more sense and the sound of the modes was immediately apparent. Thank you.
Glad you found this helpful, it can be a tricky subject and I'm not how well I explained it so it's good to hear you appreciated it. Thanks for the comment 🙏
1:08 you should've made example from major scale from C key. But why you are also not stressing the fact that the intervals between the keys will change when playing major scale from different starting points. And i think its easier to remember the modes like this: Ionian = Maj scale Dorian = Min scale with 6 instead of b6 Phrygian = Min scale with b2 Lydian = Maj scale with #4 Mixolydian = Maj scale with b7 Aeolian = relative min scale Locrian = diminished scale with b2
I've been able to grasp some of the concepts you present. Fascinating. And even if I learned little I still enjoy your teaching style immensely particularly your humor.
I play guitar and have been working on applying modes to my playing for a while now. Excellent video. It given me a few lightbulb moments...Thanks loads..🙏
I didn’t quite get it yet, but after a few mods videos from various creators, yours left me most inspired. Gonna start learning the formulas and practicing, then checking your part 2. Thanks!
Hey Chuck! Thanks for the comment. Hopefully my ‘part 2’ video is a bit more helpful, there were definitely some bits I missed or didn’t explain very well in this video. Good luck on your modes adventure! 👍🏼
I've watched countless videos with a similar title and aim, but they've never explained it the way you do with playing over the pedal note. That was a penny drop moment for me in learning how to hear the characteristic differences in each mode, compared to C Ionian. Because modes are almost universally demonstrated over the C Ionian, all of the same stuff is repeated and there's no new insight or perspective. Thank you!
I can’t stop thinking about what sound people make when the fish odour hits there senses. It’s really a wide range when you think about it. Great lesson
We learned how to play music by listening to the radio and learned the chords from a music book sold in the fish market called song hits. It's a book of songs with lyrics and chords and the book has a chord chart of all common chords.
Michael, I have to say, this is one of the best explanations I've watched on modes. For once, I think the crazy solos from Cory Henry are actually achievable! 😅 Could I ask, are you able to create a "guide" PDF that lists the common chord types and the modes you can use on them? I also like how you simplified the modes to, "If you want to use Mixolydian, flat 6 and 7 (apologies if it's technically accurate but hope you get what I mean) that'd also be a cool thing to add to that guide PDF. Now to practice these things once and for all, need to conquer this.
Thanks for your comment Tony, I appreciate the encouragement. I'll have a think about that pdf, a few people have asked for something similar so it might be worth doing! Good luck with those Cory Henry-esque solos!! 😵💫
Thanks for this very helpful explanations. And a big yes for a pdf of chords type showing the modes that are fit into it ( 10:55 ) Thank you so much in advance ! I can see your channel will grow fast as lightning with this quality of contents 🎉 congrats !!
Hey Tony, I've just released a follow up video to this and, as requested, I have included a link to the pdf you asked for and also talk in a bit more depth about what scales are used with which chords and why. Hope you check it out. ruclips.net/video/ZnD5F6o7B1g/видео.html
@@mcneilrecinto7220 Hi! I've just released a follow up video to this one and, as requested, I have included a link to the pdf you asked for and also talk in a bit more depth about what scales are used with which chords and why. Hope you check it out. ruclips.net/video/ZnD5F6o7B1g/видео.html
It makes a big difference to my ears when you play all the modes starting on the same note. I find it a lot harder to differentiate their sound if all the modes of a scale are played one after the other using the scale tones. And yes, I learned them, but never really tried to figure out how to use them. I'm on a long term haitus from playing but when I go back this is one of the areas that I'd like to get familiar with. The demonstration you did from halfway through minute four was really useful; actually it reminded me of something Chic Corea would play... Thanks for the demo
Yeah, I agree. I never felt like there was much difference between the modes when I played them consecutively going up the major key, they all just sound like their parent major key, displaced, but take them out of that context and play then all from the same root note and they come alive! Hope the video was helpful!
Cheers Michael. Most people can't explain things clearly and logically. You can. Also, I've just watched a number of posts by musicriyaaz. You're right, It's grand.
I struggled with modes for ages! I used to wonder, they're all the same notes of the C scale, what's the difference what note you start on? But your 1st video really explained it for me even more than the 2nd. It's really about a particular sound and feel. I got that when you played the Mixo. and Lydian modes. Now I don't think in terms of what mode for what chord, but rather what feel/mood is there for a section. I hate to ask for more stuff, but for me what would be useful is that chart of just the C scale showing the chords for every mode. So if you see a II with a Dm7b5, you could know what mode that section is switching to. And we can try substituting different mode chords to change the sound. I know this is a long post, but thank you for all of your info and teaching.
Hey John! I've just released a follow up video to this one, a 'Part II' to try to tie up a few loose ends from this video. Hope you check it out. ruclips.net/video/ZnD5F6o7B1g/видео.html
Dude!! Thank you so much. 2:30 in and I'm geeked. Playing all modes starting with the same note is an awesome idea. I have to re-watch what you said about minor scales. I already know the sixth note is the start of the relative minor scale. Aolian?
Ha! ha! please excuse me! I play guitar and have just learned more about practical use of modes from your good self then any guitar tut on the subject. We string pluckers like modes a lot - I've been playing them for years not knowing when to slip in and out of them. Just using my ear. Now I get it...ta! love to all!
I think you hit the nail on the head at the end for understanding the application of modes in improvising. The biggest thing that always trips me up is WHY or HOW we choose the isolated modes for a particular chord when we're improvising. You mention that further knowledge is needed to understand what modes you would use for particular chord types. That's the big gap for me.
Exactly what i was thinking. I think it might just be: chord tones + any of the modes that have ALL those tones in them… and then you add in whatever other notes are in said mode … ?¿?
Hey Andrew, yeah, you’ve pretty much got it. For any of these chords you come up against, their chords tones will all exist in a scale (major, melodic minor, harmonic major, diminished, wholetone,…) so when you know what scale or scales they fit into, then you know you can use those scales to improvise with.
Hi! I've just released a follow up video to this one and to try cover some bits I skipped over in this video I talk in a bit more depth about what scales are used with which chords and why. Hope you check it out. ruclips.net/video/ZnD5F6o7B1g/видео.html
@@asdkfjhasdjfhasdfasdf Hey Andrew! I've just released a follow up video to this one and to make up for skipping over some bits, I talk in a bit more depth about what scales are used with which chords and why. Hope you check it out. ruclips.net/video/ZnD5F6o7B1g/видео.html
Thanks Paul! Appreciate the kind comment, it is a tough subject and I'm not sure I did a great job in this video, hence 'Part 2' but hopefully there's enough in there to make it worthwhile! Thanks for the encouragement! 👍
@@michaelkeithson I enjoyed both videos equally. When I first learned about modes a long time ago, it was shown to me just in the context of playing over a drone of the root, which is great for appreciating the flavour of each mode, but does not tell you how you can use them more widely. It took me a long time and a deeper understanding of theory to appreciate how modes can be used in passages here and there. You show that part of it very clearly and will watch it again, as there is a lot of info in there and you show options I had not thought about. Thank you very much for this!
Thankyou... Yes I play guitar and not a Jazz musician, but you explained everything the way Ive been trying to wrap my head around playing... So yes there were a couple of points that felt like it glued some loose ends for me... Especially the part about the scales, and it just coming in time with more play... Ill probably be hitting arpeggios of each chord then say the quality of that chord.. Meaning flat 2 and flat 6 if that makes sense.. Thanks again!!
Thanks for your comment Scott, this was something I’d struggled with for a while and it’s great to hear that I must have explained it in a way that will make sense to some people. I really appreciate you stopping by!
I don't know what your use of double exclamation marks did to my brain, but I had to read the thumbnail and title 3 times before I realized it's "modes" not "models". But here I am, so I guess they did their job :))
Good stuff! Understanding the theory behind modes in one thing. But actually memorizing it and then putting it into practice? That's a whole different dimension and far beyond me.
Great knowledge here as everyone said. Also your concise editing is a nice treat, the subtle zoom-ins when you make an important point is really cool. I didnt realize that the first play. Cant wait for part 2 😊 im a bass player btw but trying to learn composition outside of diatonic boring stuff!
Big thanks for your comment! Currently editing 'part 2' - I've included a little section about composing in a mode, hopefully you'll find that useful. Cheers. MK
I've now released a 'Part II' to this video that hopefully clears up a few of the points I hadn't explained well or skipped over in this video. Once you've watched this video, check it out: ruclips.net/video/ZnD5F6o7B1g/видео.html
My wife made some hard-boiled eggs the other day, and when I got home, I was amazed at how mixolydian the house smelt!
😂🤣 Hilarious!
Keep them good in the Frygian.
Bet you Aeolian them eggs anyway.
This unlocked something in my music theory brain that I knew need to be unlocked but I didn't know exactly what it was yet, but knew it was there and it was this. Thank you.
Hey Caleb, that’s so great to hear, glad you’re finding some value from my videos. 👍🏼
I dig how you explain things! You walk it through step by step logically and it feels very intuitive to me
Thank you! I’m pleased it’s been useful to you. 👍🏼🎹🎵
Agreed, even the fish analogy was quite lucid
😂🤣 Ha! Thanks, I wasn’t sure whether to include it or not!
I'll add, your mic is really good. Maybe you could block the ambient sound from the keyboard keys with a pop filter or cone? Only trying to help if it's useful to you.
@@KidDozzi Cheers Ian.
You have a gift to explain things well. The words used, tone, examples, pace, sequencing... Also the lighting and camera, a joy to watch. Thank you for sharing.
Cheers dude! I really appreciate your support. Thanks 🙏
This is the best video on modes that I’ve ever seen. Well done and thank you sir!
Ah thanks David, that means a lot. Maybe I should make some more vids like these then! Really appreciate your comment. Cheers
Its always about the root note. The root of the scale. Everything you're hearing and making sense of in music, you're always aware of where that tonal centre is. (Leaving out modulation for the moment)
Mis-training modes starts with the teacher saying something like "C major (Ionian) is exactly the same scale as C- minor (Aolian)." Or they say something like Im afraid "if you start with the second note that is a dorian mode" without mentioning that in-fact it's E dorian not D Dorian. So yes it's a dorian scale. But it's a completely different scale, with a different root. The fact it uses the same notes is incidental, and has no musical impact. All the relationships within that scale are different to our ears. To explain them as being the same scale is what leads people off on the wrong path and leads to much confusion,
Each mode has different intervals and different chords, and we are always aware of where the root note is when we are listening (and hopefully playing). The history of where these diatonic modal scales come from is as ancient as their names, they are firmly set within us.
Preach! 👏 Yeah, completely agree, I think maybe there’s a lack of understanding from some teachers too that just keeps getting passed down. Thanks for the comment.
The Ionians were the Greeks. I think you meant C Major and A minor. Those are the same. If you're in Major it'll always be the 6th note in the scale or 3 semi tones down. C Major and C minor are parallels of each other.
So like how do you stay within the tonal center for say a melody? Makes sense because even when you know music theory if you're not applying functional harmony then it sounds incomplete.
@@AFRoSHEENT3ARCMICHAEL69 Thanks for the comments. I think it's kind of about where you start and end and which notes you're accentuating in between. I've got another video on modes that I'm about release and I talk a bit about writing a song within a mode and I think it might cover that a little bit.
@@AFRoSHEENT3ARCMICHAEL69 Hey, I've just released that modes follow up video I mentioned which talks a bit about writing a melody within a mode if you wanted to check it out. Cheers
In guitar, modes are used as connectors after melody with tension notes to a resolving melody, usually going to the end chord of a stanza. In improvisation solos, modes form the licks joined in between melodies.
I've said this before Michael,the way you explain whatever it may be in your videos is so very enlightening. Please Keep up these fantastic tutorials! They really are so thoroughly explained in an easy way one can understand. You really have a talent for this and I love the humour. Thank so very much.
Hey Terry, thanks for the kind comment. Really glad you're enjoying the videos and finding them useful. Thanks!
The RUclips algorithm kindly put this video into my feed. I love finding other music theory teachers on YT. Interesting take on using modes. I tend to think, 'I'm going to write a song in Dorian' and that's it. Or, how can I make this sound different, I know, I'll stick a Lydian tritone here. I've been trying to find songs IN Mixolydian, and having a hard time because a lot of them just have a portion in that mode. That should have been my clue. Entire songs don't have to be in the same mode. It's ok, to mix and match for the sake of the song. Keep up the good work!
Hi Jean! Thank you so much for this comment and thank you RUclips algorithm for introducing us! I'm sure there's still lots about modes that I've not uncovered yet on the music journey and I think we all seem to come at the same things from different angles but I do enjoy thinking about these things! Thanks for stopping by!
I was completely lost on modes for years. They all seemed to be saying nothing in a complicated way. You are EXACTLY correct about finding the relationships of the position of the starting note not very helpful - and it is better to think about the accidentals. Just today my piano teacher straightened me out on the modes and said almost exactly the same thing you said. But I LOVE your horizontal / vertical analogy. You saying that - along with my lesson today - opened up brand new vistas for me. Horizontal and Vertical... That is almost poetic. And then to think about the modes relating to each other horizontally like a string... Now THAT is how a fine fabric is woven, and I believe that is what I hear (and was confused why I couldn't do) what someone like McCoy Tyner does (or, did 😢). Thanks for this. I forwarded it to my teacher.
Hi Brent! Thanks for your comment. I'm glad you enjoyed the video. This was my first educational video and looking back I can see that it was a bit all over the place and had a few gaps so I'm glad that you were still able to get some value from it. Cheers 👍
It all pretty much comes down to options, one can take a scale with them or use the mode that "fits " the root of the chord or play some outside notes to add spice/flavor,either way it's all jazz
My ever struggle is modes.I allways understood them intheory, but like you said along the way you start growing a fealig, and it come naturally. Looved it.
Thanks for the comment! Hope you found it useful.
Makes complete sense. Effective use of these concepts takes a lot of time and practice, as tou'd expect.
This is so much better than when I enrolled in Berklee in the 70s. I asked my tutor assigned to me, what a scale is. His answer, you'll have to go to the mountain top to find the answer. Thanks for making this more accessible and actually interesting!
Hey George! That's nice of you to say so, I'm glad you enjoyed the video. Thanks for leaving a comment 🙏
Best out of 100 videos that all try to explain modes. I finally get not *how* but *why* to use them.
Ah! Thanks for your great comment. I really appreciate the encouragement! I’m pleased you found it helpful.
As a programmer I see music as a similar concept.
- There is an underlying system (theory)
- Libraries provide access to the system (keys)
- Each library has related, but different, functions (modes/scales)
- These come together to create frameworks (chords)
- We use these to build things (music)
- And finally, there is always a deadline (rhythm)
Nice! I like your thinking 👍
Now this is something I could actually understand and use. You have to love educated Jazz players and the methods they use to explain things. I appreciated this, thank you.
Thanks for your comment Vic. I'm pleased you found it helpful and easy to understand. Happy practising!
You addressed the very question that I've been wanting to resolve - how to actually use modes, rather than merely understanding them in isolation (much, as you say, like knowing scales: how to use the information in playing). And you've done so clearly, in a way that even if I wasn't familiar with some of the terms, I could follow your line (the annotations are also very timely and clear.. thanks for those!) You tread a very good line, crediting the viewer with intelligence but with a desire (and need) for explanation and examples.
I was very pleased to be able to understand exactly why a Lydian relates to maj7 sharp 11, so your examples affirmed learning as well.
I think one of the mistakes I've made is trying to assign the modes from the tonic to each chord, rather than working from the tonic of each chord (for example, if a piece is in the key of D, then using a mode of D for every chord that follows). But that's me, running before I can walk.
In any event, I'll watch this video many times, I predict, to absorb and gradually internalise, what you're saying so well. Thank you!
Rob, it was so good to read your comment, thank you for taking the time to share. I’m so pleased that my videos are reaching people like you who are able to find some value in them and make sense of my ramblings! Hopefully plenty more videos to come if I can find things worth talking about! Cheers. MK
The ‘fish’ analogy does work many thanks, I’m glad I found your channel.
Ha! Cheers Harry, I’m glad you found it too! 😉 Happy New Year!
These are the scales that change my mood instantly.
I really enjoyed the Video, I had a LIGHT BULB moment the other month. If you look the circle of 5ths. And you look at ever key that has a C natural in. One choice is obviously C major. Other choices are G F Bb Eb Ab Db/C#. Moving on position to the right you get G lydian going left you have Bb dorian F mixolydian Eb aeolian you can work the rest out. So if you just picture the circle of 5th. You know if you play a G scale over a C drone you get Lydian. Or you can just explore up and down and remember you only have one sharp the F# which is the lydian note the #4.
Thanks for the comment! Yeah, I think with things like this we often have to find the angle that best fits our thinking and approach. Good luck!
@@michaelkeithson This is more or less how I think of modes. I play guitar, and I know scale shapes, but I don't read music or tab. By noodling over the "wrong" scale position, whatever I'm playing instantly evokes whichever mode corresponds with the difference in the position. Since I usually improvise, then sometimes it sounds great. Often, it sounds like someone practising arpeggios, though!
@@ParaBellum2024have you noticed that the first four notes of the ionian mode has the same finger pattern as the first four notes of the mixolydian mode regardless of key? The same is true for the dorian-aeolian and the phrygian-locrian modes. (Assuming you start each with the first finger)
You had 999 subscribers when i watched this. My seeing that, after really appreciating this video very much, and knowing "I" would be sub #1000 was enough for me to know I've discovered a place I'm supposed to be! Thank you for your work here, Michael! I've played all my life, and "professionally" on some big stages over the past 20 years. But I've always known my jazz chops are very lacking (although somewhat aware of the theory/mechanics). Realizing jazz is (besides classical) the "brainy" side of music, I think I'm finally beginning to step into that higher musical awareness, like I've always WANTED to do, but just haven't. That changes... now! You'll be part of that, Michael, through your videos and I thank you for sharing your heart's talent! It effects lives.. in real ways. May ad revenue pour your way! 😄 Blessings from across the pond!
Steve! Welcome to the family and thank you for being my 1000th subscriber!!!! It's been really great seeing all the love and encouragement after posting this video. I'm going to do my best to continue giving value to folks like you - I just hope I can work out what that might be! Thanks for your leaving your comment, it means a lot. Cheers. 🎹
Amazing lesson! A life time of learning condensed in 15minutes! Let's practice with under this "vision"
🙏 Thanks Pedro! Really pleased you found some value in the video. Thanks for the comment 👍
Learning modes in this way and applying them to improvisation the way you do is infinitely more useful than how it is traditionally taught. Thanks for this. This is the first time I’ve seen you. I’m gonna subscribe and look for content on how you craft your improvised melodies. Quite brilliantly I might add.
Thank you. I’m really pleased you found it helpful. Thanks a bunch for sub! 👍🏼🎹
This was probably the most challenging video I’ve encountered from you thus far but you still did a great job explaining it 🤞🏾 I’ll definitely come back to it once I have a better grasp on these more chord relationships
Hey Samuel, this was the first educational video like this that I made and I don't think I did the best job of explaining things and potentially tried to fit in too much, hence the follow up video, so I'm not surprised this was a little harder to digest. Thanks for the comment though.
The pedal tone example was really illuminating for me
Awesome! Glad you found it useful! 👍
This is so far over my head, but fascinating! Your secondary dominant video was much more on my level.
Fantastic explanation, I've been trying to grasp this for so long and until now hearing you explaining the verticality of the scales and how you applied them with 7th chords everything made much more sense. It's crazy to see how fast you can draw from a seemingly unrelated scale (compared to the root ionian) so fast. Lots of practice :)
Thanks Maximiliano! Really glad you found the video useful. Happy practising!! 🎹
Options yes, but we're guided in our choices by the vertical chords that come before and after each chord. But very solid.
Thank you Michael Keithson! -from Philippines! :)💯
You're very welcome Joseph! Thanks for the comment! 👍
Yep, the perspective i got after i realized i can play (program, I'm not play any physical instruments) modes over scales was just mind blowing. I always find odd how people praise, say dorian and when i try to make dorian piece itt always was... Meh. It was because i did EVERYTHING i dorian. Melody, harmonies, from the beginning to end. The moment i started to experiment with smearing modes over simple major and minor chords things get immediately interesting, and i can't wait to implement it in... techno as soon i would be able to 😅
My method of teaching theory goes this was. First teach modes in relation to the major key, than once that can play with it for a while I introduce differences in minor modes in relation to natural minor and major to major scale. Once we have that we isolate the characteristic notes example 2 and 6 in minor and 4 and 7 in major. Then I delve into getting them to describe the sound of those characteristic notes. Example Lydian being surreal or dream state or alien world. I usually get them to identify those characteristic notes so it’s more personal to the student. Then teach them to use the characteristic notes as colour instead of as a whole and use that colour to paint major and minor pentatonics. It seems to make players less pattern or fully diatonic. IMHO it makes them a much more rounded player.
Amazing video. Please do more of these!!! Thank you
Thanks Maria! Definitely more similar videos to come. Do you have any specific topics in mind that you'd like me to cover?!
Thanks for the encouragement! MK
Hello, the part of the video where you suggest people practice the modes with the same tonic beginning -around 2:03 in the video - is just brilliant. No one has ever pointed that out, nor have they instructed that a musician know a particular mode by constructing the mode individually, I.e., knowing where the flats are in the scale. Thank you for a different perspective…now, I gotta go practice! =] oh, and I play the harp, but also have access to a piano as well…
Hey Kevin, thanks for your comment. I'm really pleased there was something useful in there for you! Cheers 👍
This is really helpful. I especially like that you didn't choose C major to demonstrate the modes and that you started each mode on the same root note. So may explanations of modes use C and then move up the scale for each successive mode so that they just feel like different scales. This video, especially the section with the demonstration over a pedal drone, makes much more sense and the sound of the modes was immediately apparent. Thank you.
Glad you found this helpful, it can be a tricky subject and I'm not how well I explained it so it's good to hear you appreciated it. Thanks for the comment 🙏
I've been feeling really stuck to the major scale and you just gave me an eye opener. Thanks you
Awesome! Glad the video was useful for you. Thanks for the comment 👍
I'm getting back into music after a long time out of it. This is stuff I need to study and know about, thanks.
Welcome back and good luck on the journey. Glad you got something from the video. Happy exploring!
@@michaelkeithson :)
1:08 you should've made example from major scale from C key.
But why you are also not stressing the fact that the intervals between the keys will change when playing major scale from different starting points.
And i think its easier to remember the modes like this:
Ionian = Maj scale
Dorian = Min scale with 6 instead of b6
Phrygian = Min scale with b2
Lydian = Maj scale with #4
Mixolydian = Maj scale with b7
Aeolian = relative min scale
Locrian = diminished scale with b2
Very helpful. So glad I came across your channel. Your videos are a part of my regiment now
Thanks David! I'm glad you're here too! Thanks for sharing the love 🙏
I've been able to grasp some of the concepts you present. Fascinating. And even if I learned little I still enjoy your teaching style immensely particularly your humor.
Thanks for your comment Patrick, I'm glad you enjoyed the video 👍
Informative on the application,thanks for sharing
Wow this caught me right in my learning where I was able to follow along pretty well and it wasn’t over my head or too basic. Great video!
Awesome! Really pleased it was useful for you. Thanks for the comment.
I didn't search this up, but I didn't expect someone could explain modes for me in such an easy way for free 😂
😂 Nice. I hope you found it helpful.
Thank you for sharing your knowledge!
My pleasure. I hope you found it useful.
I play guitar and have been working on applying modes to my playing for a while now. Excellent video. It given me a few lightbulb moments...Thanks loads..🙏
Hey Tom, thanks for your comment! I'm pleased you found it helpful.
Very useful and clear. Thank you.
Thanks Eric, glad you enjoyed it. Thanks for the comment.
WOW! This is the first time I've ever heard a useful explanation of mode. Thank you so much.
Thanks for the comment, I appreciate it. Glad you found the video helpful.
I didn’t quite get it yet, but after a few mods videos from various creators, yours left me most inspired. Gonna start learning the formulas and practicing, then checking your part 2. Thanks!
Hey Chuck! Thanks for the comment. Hopefully my ‘part 2’ video is a bit more helpful, there were definitely some bits I missed or didn’t explain very well in this video. Good luck on your modes adventure! 👍🏼
I've watched countless videos with a similar title and aim, but they've never explained it the way you do with playing over the pedal note. That was a penny drop moment for me in learning how to hear the characteristic differences in each mode, compared to C Ionian. Because modes are almost universally demonstrated over the C Ionian, all of the same stuff is repeated and there's no new insight or perspective. Thank you!
Ah, cheers. I appreciate the comment. Glad you found it useful.
Well explained and understandable.
Thank you. I hope you found it useful.
Thank you for this excellent explanation. I'm a bass player that wants to improve on music theory and this is exactly what I was looking for.
Perfect! Glad you found it helpful, thanks for leaving a comment 👍🏼
Need more of these videos, very pleasing and gained the concept
Cheers! Plenty more videos to come! 👍🏼
I can’t stop thinking about what sound people make when the fish odour hits there senses. It’s really a wide range when you think about it. Great lesson
🤣😂 Thanks for your comment Tim.
Awesome video maestro. Thank you
Thank you! I appreciate your kind words! Hope you’re having a perfect week!
Cool, starting to get how improv works Thank you!
Great to hear, hope this has been useful. 🎹👍🏼
Thank you....I was mostly bewildered by this, but that's mostly my lack of education beyond HS band. You explained things excellently.
You're welcome! Cheers for comment.
We learned how to play music by listening to the radio and learned the chords from a music book sold in the fish market called song hits. It's a book of songs with lyrics and chords and the book has a chord chart of all common chords.
Michael, I have to say, this is one of the best explanations I've watched on modes. For once, I think the crazy solos from Cory Henry are actually achievable! 😅
Could I ask, are you able to create a "guide" PDF that lists the common chord types and the modes you can use on them? I also like how you simplified the modes to, "If you want to use Mixolydian, flat 6 and 7 (apologies if it's technically accurate but hope you get what I mean) that'd also be a cool thing to add to that guide PDF.
Now to practice these things once and for all, need to conquer this.
Thanks for your comment Tony, I appreciate the encouragement.
I'll have a think about that pdf, a few people have asked for something similar so it might be worth doing!
Good luck with those Cory Henry-esque solos!! 😵💫
Thanks for this very helpful explanations.
And a big yes for a pdf of chords type showing the modes that are fit into it ( 10:55 ) Thank you so much in advance !
I can see your channel will grow fast as lightning with this quality of contents 🎉 congrats !!
Hey Tony, I've just released a follow up video to this and, as requested, I have included a link to the pdf you asked for and also talk in a bit more depth about what scales are used with which chords and why. Hope you check it out. ruclips.net/video/ZnD5F6o7B1g/видео.html
@@mcneilrecinto7220 Hi! I've just released a follow up video to this one and, as requested, I have included a link to the pdf you asked for and also talk in a bit more depth about what scales are used with which chords and why. Hope you check it out. ruclips.net/video/ZnD5F6o7B1g/видео.html
It makes a big difference to my ears when you play all the modes starting on the same note. I find it a lot harder to differentiate their sound if all the modes of a scale are played one after the other using the scale tones. And yes, I learned them, but never really tried to figure out how to use them. I'm on a long term haitus from playing but when I go back this is one of the areas that I'd like to get familiar with.
The demonstration you did from halfway through minute four was really useful; actually it reminded me of something Chic Corea would play... Thanks for the demo
Yeah, I agree. I never felt like there was much difference between the modes when I played them consecutively going up the major key, they all just sound like their parent major key, displaced, but take them out of that context and play then all from the same root note and they come alive! Hope the video was helpful!
amazing explanation! made modes make so much more sense to me! yaaay
Great to hear! Glad it was helpful. Thanks for the comment 🙏
Cheers Michael. Most people can't explain things clearly and logically. You can. Also, I've just watched a number of posts by musicriyaaz. You're right, It's grand.
Thanks for your comment Steph, it’s very kind and I appreciate it. I’m glad you checked out more of his stuff, it’s so impressive!!
The analogy of the fish is perfect
Very clear explanation. Best regards.
🤣
i think i founf the video that will change my life and help me improve , youre the best
🙏🤗 Thanks! I'm really glad you found it useful. Thanks for the comment
Finally, I got it, thanks to your video. You simply demystify it. So in the end It's all about the sound.
That’s great Tor, so pleased that my video has helped you on your journey. Thanks for watching!
Thank you! This makes so much sense now!👍
Thanks Andri, I'm pleased it was useful for you!
Your content is educative and easy to approach
Well articulated keep up the good work Sir👏
Ah thanks Arthur. I really appreciate your kind comment, I’ll do my best to keep things coming! Cheers.
Sir, I love your "mode" of explanation and this really cleared things up for me. Subscribed 🙏🙏
Ha! I like what you did there! Glad the video was helpful. Thanks for the sub 🙏
this was actually an amazing insight and technique for using modes! thanks!
Thanks for the kind comment. I’m pleased you found it useful. Cheers.
I struggled with modes for ages! I used to wonder, they're all the same notes of the C scale, what's the difference what note you start on? But your 1st video really explained it for me even more than the 2nd. It's really about a particular sound and feel. I got that when you played the Mixo. and Lydian modes. Now I don't think in terms of what mode for what chord, but rather what feel/mood is there for a section. I hate to ask for more stuff, but for me what would be useful is that chart of just the C scale showing the chords for every mode. So if you see a II with a Dm7b5, you could know what mode that section is switching to. And we can try substituting different mode chords to change the sound. I know this is a long post, but thank you for all of your info and teaching.
Thanks for the comment. I'm glad you found the video helpful.
Wonderful lesson! Thank you for the clarity, we would all love to see more theory videos in the future.
Cheers John! I appreciate your comment. Any topics in particular so I can get learning?!
Hey John! I've just released a follow up video to this one, a 'Part II' to try to tie up a few loose ends from this video. Hope you check it out. ruclips.net/video/ZnD5F6o7B1g/видео.html
Whoa! The vertical view of a chord blew my mind. From that point of view chords are just voices from scales and modes.
Thanks for the comment. I’m pleased you found it helpful. 👍🏼🎹
Dude!!
Thank you so much. 2:30 in and I'm geeked. Playing all modes starting with the same note is an awesome idea. I have to re-watch what you said about minor scales. I already know the sixth note is the start of the relative minor scale. Aolian?
Very interesting and.. imperative
Thank you!!
Great Explanation , I appreciate it.
Thank you! I appreciate your comment! 🎹
Ha! ha! please excuse me! I play guitar and have just learned more about practical use of modes from your good self then any guitar tut on the subject. We string pluckers like modes a lot - I've been playing them for years not knowing when to slip in and out of them. Just using my ear. Now I get it...ta! love to all!
Awesome! I’m glad you feel that way. Thanks so much for the comment and encouragement, I appreciate it. 👍🏼🎹🎵
I think you hit the nail on the head at the end for understanding the application of modes in improvising. The biggest thing that always trips me up is WHY or HOW we choose the isolated modes for a particular chord when we're improvising. You mention that further knowledge is needed to understand what modes you would use for particular chord types. That's the big gap for me.
Exactly what i was thinking. I think it might just be: chord tones + any of the modes that have ALL those tones in them… and then you add in whatever other notes are in said mode … ?¿?
Thanks for the comment. Yeah, you’re right, I kind of missed a step. I’m going to release a ‘Modes Part II’ soon and try to cover that a bit more.
Hey Andrew, yeah, you’ve pretty much got it. For any of these chords you come up against, their chords tones will all exist in a scale (major, melodic minor, harmonic major, diminished, wholetone,…) so when you know what scale or scales they fit into, then you know you can use those scales to improvise with.
Hi! I've just released a follow up video to this one and to try cover some bits I skipped over in this video I talk in a bit more depth about what scales are used with which chords and why. Hope you check it out. ruclips.net/video/ZnD5F6o7B1g/видео.html
@@asdkfjhasdjfhasdfasdf Hey Andrew! I've just released a follow up video to this one and to make up for skipping over some bits, I talk in a bit more depth about what scales are used with which chords and why. Hope you check it out. ruclips.net/video/ZnD5F6o7B1g/видео.html
Another excellent lesson on a very confusing subject Michael! I'm off to watch the follow up now.
Thanks Paul! Appreciate the kind comment, it is a tough subject and I'm not sure I did a great job in this video, hence 'Part 2' but hopefully there's enough in there to make it worthwhile! Thanks for the encouragement! 👍
@@michaelkeithson I enjoyed both videos equally. When I first learned about modes a long time ago, it was shown to me just in the context of playing over a drone of the root, which is great for appreciating the flavour of each mode, but does not tell you how you can use them more widely. It took me a long time and a deeper understanding of theory to appreciate how modes can be used in passages here and there. You show that part of it very clearly and will watch it again, as there is a lot of info in there and you show options I had not thought about. Thank you very much for this!
@@paulschipper9428 Cheers Paul, glad you’ve got something out of it. Appreciate the feedback!
Love the tempo at which this is explained. Really sinks in.
Cheers. I appreciate the comment.
wonderful breakdown, thank you. This squared a lot of circles for me
Thanks! I'm pleased it was helpful.
The house stinking like fish analogy had me bustin up, man. Thanks for the laugh and the lesson.
😆😂 I’m pleased you enjoyed it! Not sure that was the best analogy but glad it tickled you! Thanks for watching!
Great video, nicely explained
Thanks. I appreciate your comment, hope it was somewhat helpful. Cheers
Thankyou... Yes I play guitar and not a Jazz musician, but you explained everything the way Ive been trying to wrap my head around playing... So yes there were a couple of points that felt like it glued some loose ends for me... Especially the part about the scales, and it just coming in time with more play... Ill probably be hitting arpeggios of each chord then say the quality of that chord.. Meaning flat 2 and flat 6 if that makes sense.. Thanks again!!
Thanks for your comment Scott, this was something I’d struggled with for a while and it’s great to hear that I must have explained it in a way that will make sense to some people. I really appreciate you stopping by!
Modes are a way to start with different tension instead of the resolution a tonic would give. That's how they get used. Feel free to explore.
I don't know what your use of double exclamation marks did to my brain, but I had to read the thumbnail and title 3 times before I realized it's "modes" not "models".
But here I am, so I guess they did their job :))
😆 Ha! That's a completely different video!
The fish analogy worked fine for me. Great video, very helpful, even for me as a guitarist. Also, I recognized the Mixolydian right away. Nice!
Nice! Glad you found it helpful. Thanks for the comment 🙏
Thank you for explaining this. Can you explain to also how to use minor blues scale. I know it and don't know how to apply it
Great explanation. Thanks
Thanks. I hope it was helpful!
Great lesson Michael! Thank you!
Really great lesson, thanks.
Thank you! I'm pleased you appreciated it. Cheers!
Great. Great video, really helpful, your other videos too, bit o' humour as well, love it x
Thanks Dan! 🙏 Glad you're enjoying the videos and finding them useful too! Cheers
Super awesom video. Cleared up some misunderstandings i had. Thanks for taking the time to make it.
Thanks for your comment Calvin. I’m pleased you found it helpful!
Thanks for showing different ways to approach modes and this is what I can work with even if I go slow.
Thanks Ariel, I hope it was useful. Make sure you check out my Part II video about modes too if you haven’t already. Cheers. MK
@@michaelkeithson will do. I'm sure it will be critical for my music journey.
Great stuff. And you’re correct, it is complicated and requires practice and discussion. This is very helpful. Thanks!
Thanks Louis, I’m pleased you found it helpful.
It's not complicated at all
If you still don't fully understand mode i can help ya
Good stuff! Understanding the theory behind modes in one thing. But actually memorizing it and then putting it into practice? That's a whole different dimension and far beyond me.
You can do it, I’m certain. It just takes a bit of time and regular application! Good luck!
The example you showed from the Indian singer is B Lydian with a drone on the B. There's just a little microtonal ornamentation in there..
Thank you so much for this video.
You are very welcome! 🙏
Amazingly useful. Thank you
Thanks. I’m really pleased you found it helpful.
Great knowledge here as everyone said. Also your concise editing is a nice treat, the subtle zoom-ins when you make an important point is really cool. I didnt realize that the first play. Cant wait for part 2 😊 im a bass player btw but trying to learn composition outside of diatonic boring stuff!
Big thanks for your comment! Currently editing 'part 2' - I've included a little section about composing in a mode, hopefully you'll find that useful. Cheers. MK
Hey! My modes part II video is out now. Hope you can find that useful and interesting too! Cheers. MK ruclips.net/video/ZnD5F6o7B1g/видео.html
Best explanation ever
Ah thanks Jerome! I appreciate your comment, I hope you got something useful out of the video! 👍🏼