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D Dorian Scale

The D Dorian scale is the 2nd mode of the C 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 D Dorian scale: notes, intervals, theory, and how to play it on the piano.

D Dorian Scale Notes

The D Dorian scale contains the following notes:

D – E – F – G – A – B – C

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

D Dorian Piano Diagram

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

D Dorian Scale Formula and Intervals

The interval formula for the Dorian scale is:

W – H – W – W – W – H – W

Applied to D, this gives us:

Thus, D 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 D Dorian

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

Related Scales and Modes

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

D Dorian Scale FAQs

How is D Dorian different from D major?

D Dorian has a minor 3rd (F) and minor 7th (C), while D major has a major 3rd (F♯) and major 7th (C♯).

How is D Dorian different from D minor?

D Dorian has a major 6th (B), while D minor has a minor 6th (B♭).

What is the parent scale of D Dorian?

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

Summary: D Dorian Scale