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C Dorian Scale

The C Dorian scale is the 2nd mode of the B♭ major scale, giving it a distinctive minor sound characterized by its raised 6th degree. This combination of a minor 3rd with a major 6th creates a smooth, versatile quality often heard in jazz, funk, folk, and rock, among other genres.

This page covers everything you need to know about the C Dorian scale: notes, intervals, theory, and how to play it on the piano.

C Dorian Scale Notes

The C Dorian scale contains the following notes:

C – D – E♭ – F – G – A – B♭

These notes come directly from the B♭ major parent scale, starting on its 2nd degree (C).

C Dorian Piano Diagram

This diagram highlights which keys belong to the C Dorian scale, which is helpful for visualizing whole steps, half steps, and the overall shape of the scale on the keyboard.

C Dorian Scale Formula and Intervals

The interval formula for the Dorian scale is:

W – H – W – W – W – H – W

Applied to C, this gives us:

Thus, C Dorian is built with the following scale degrees:

This structure, especially the combination of the minor 3rd with the major 6th, gives the Dorian mode its characteristic quality.

Chords in the Key of C Dorian

When stacking thirds on each scale degree of the C Dorian scale, the following diatonic triads emerge:

Related Scales and Modes

If you enjoy playing in C Dorian, you may also like:

C Dorian Scale FAQs

How is C Dorian different from C major?

C Dorian has a minor 3rd (E♭) and minor 7th (B♭), while C major has a major 3rd (E) and major 7th (B).

How is C Dorian different from C minor?

C Dorian has a major 6th (A), while C minor has a minor 6th (A♭).

What is the parent scale of C Dorian?

B♭ major. C Dorian uses the same notes as B♭ major, but starts on its 2nd degree (C).

Summary: C Dorian Scale