Knowledge base

Modes

Some preset scales (Lydian, Mixolydian etc) are modes. The C major scale – C, D, E, F, G, A, B, C –( Ionian mode) sounds the way it does because of the pattern of intervals between the notes. If you start on D instead of C, you get another pattern (Dorian mode). Each mode is the new pattern of intervals when you use a different start note.