Does the 6 in minor come from dorian mode or from the melodic minor?

Does the 6 in minor come from Dorian mode or from the melodic minor?

In the realm of music theory, the question of where the raised sixth in minor comes from is an intriguing one. To shed light on this topic, it is essential to explore the Dorian mode and the melodic minor scale, as they both feature a raised sixth and are often associated with the minor tonality.

Dorian Mode

The Dorian mode is a minor scale with a distinctive characteristic—a raised sixth. This mode is recognized for its jazzy or mysterious sound, and the raised sixth is a defining note that contributes to its unique flavor. When constructing a Dorian scale, the intervals consist of a root, major second, flat third, perfect fourth, perfect fifth, major sixth, and flat seventh. For instance, if we start on D, the Dorian scale would comprise the notes D, E, F, G, A, B, C, and D.

The resource from Splice’s blog on music modes provides a comprehensive guide to the Dorian mode, discussing its history, intervals, and usage in various musical contexts [1].

Melodic Minor Scale

Another scale that features a raised sixth is the melodic minor scale. In jazz music, the melodic minor scale is commonly employed to access jazzier sounds during improvisation. The melodic minor scale has an intriguing characteristic: its ascending form incorporates a raised sixth and seventh, while the descending form reverts to the natural minor scale. This scale alteration contributes to the unique tonal palette of the melodic minor scale.

The blog post from Learn Jazz Standards delves into the modes of the melodic minor scale, providing insights into the melodic minor scale and its applications in jazz improvisation [3].

Context and Perspective

When considering the origin of the raised sixth in minor, it is crucial to take into account the context and perspective of the musician. The raised sixth can be attributed to either the Dorian mode or the melodic minor scale, depending on the musician’s conceptual framework.

If a musician is utilizing the sixth scale degree within the context of the Dorian mode, it can be said that the raised sixth originates from the Dorian mode. Similarly, if a musician is approaching the sixth scale degree from the perspective of the melodic minor scale, it can be attributed to the melodic minor scale.

It is worth noting that in pieces of music in minor keys, scale degrees are often altered throughout the course of the composition. Musicians may modify the sixth scale degree to fit the melodic minor scale or experiment with other variations of the minor scale, further blurring the line between the Dorian mode and the melodic minor scale.

Conclusion

The question of whether the raised sixth in minor comes from the Dorian mode or the melodic minor scale can be approached from different angles. The Dorian mode, with its raised sixth, offers a distinct tonal quality associated with jazz and mystery. On the other hand, the melodic minor scale, with its ascending form featuring a raised sixth, provides access to jazzier sounds during improvisation.

In the end, the origin of the raised sixth in minor depends on the context and perspective of the musician. Both the Dorian mode and the melodic minor scale contribute to the diverse musical landscape, enabling musicians to explore various tonalities and express their creativity.

Sources:

1. Splice Blog. “Dorian Mode: A Comprehensive Guide.” Retrieved from https://splice.com/blog/music-modes-dorian/
2. Music Stack Exchange. “Does the 6 in minor come from Dorian mode or from the melodic minor?” Retrieved from https://music.stackexchange.com/questions/114184/does-the-6-in-minor-come-from-dorian-mode-or-from-the-melodic-minor
3. Learn Jazz Standards. “Melodic Minor Scale: Supercharge Your Jazz Improv.” Retrieved from https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/blog/learning-jazz/jazz-theory/modes-melodic-minor-scale/

Note: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute professionaladvice. Consult a music theory expert for personalized guidance.

FAQs

What is the Dorian mode, and how does it relate to the raised sixth in minor?

The Dorian mode is a minor scale with a raised sixth. The raised sixth is a characteristic note that gives the Dorian mode its unique flavor. It can be said that the raised sixth in minor comes from the Dorian mode.

What is the melodic minor scale, and does it contribute to the raised sixth in minor?

The melodic minor scale is another scale that features a raised sixth. In jazz music, the melodic minor scale is commonly used to access jazzier sounds during improvisation. The ascending form of the melodic minor scale has a raised sixth and seventh, while the descending form reverts to the natural minor scale. The melodic minor scale can also contribute to the raised sixth in minor.

Can the raised sixth in minor be attributed solely to the Dorian mode or the melodic minor scale?

No, the origin of the raised sixth in minor can vary depending on the context and perspective of the musician. If a person is thinking about the Dorian mode scale when using a sixth, it can be said to come from the Dorian mode. Similarly, if a person is thinking about the melodic minor scale, the sixth can be said to come from the melodic minor scale.

Are there other scale alterations in minor keys besides the raised sixth?

Yes, in pieces of music in minor keys, scale degrees are often altered throughout the course of the piece. This can include changing the sixth to fit the melodic minor scale or other variations of the minor scale. Scale alterations provide musicians with additional tonal options and creative possibilities.

How do the Dorian mode and the melodic minor scale contribute to the musical landscape?

Both the Dorian mode and the melodic minor scale contribute to the diverse musical landscape by offering unique tonalities and flavors. The Dorian mode is often associated with jazz and mystery, while the melodic minor scale provides access to jazzier sounds during improvisation. Musicians can explore these modes to express their creativity and enhance their musical compositions.