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E Dorian Scale

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

E Dorian Scale Notes

The E Dorian scale contains the following notes:

E – F♯ – G – A – B – C♯ – D

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

E Dorian Piano Diagram

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

E Dorian Scale Formula and Intervals

The interval formula for the Dorian scale is:

W – H – W – W – W – H – W

Applied to E, this gives us:

Thus, E 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 E Dorian

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

Related Scales and Modes

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

E Dorian Scale FAQs

How is E Dorian different from E major?

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

How is E Dorian different from E minor?

E Dorian has a major 6th (C♯), while E minor has a minor 6th (C).

What is the parent scale of E Dorian?

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

Summary: E Dorian Scale