Applying the Modes

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The following chord progression is designed to help you to hear the individual sound of each of the seven modes. The idea is that, since all of the chords and scales are constructed from the same root, when the chord changes, the sound of the new mode is the most pronounced. These chords follow exactly the same order as the modes as they appear in the major scale. (See Modes and Keys.) These are the scales to be used.

Record each of these chords for as many measures as you wish without stopping between chords. When soloing or playing the scale over the chord, be sure to change scales at the same time as the chord changes. Once you understand how each of these scales is used, play the same chord progression from a different root and solo using the appropriate modes. Then mix them up. Write a chord progression at random or from a song you know and change scales as necessary in your solo. Practice this every time you pick up the bass. The mode sounds are the foundation for understanding the relationships between scales and chords. They sound great and will add dimension to your playing regardless of what style you play. And, most importantly, the are fun.

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