Guitar scale
F Dorian Guitar Scale
F Dorian is a seven-note scale built from F, G, Ab, Bb, C, D, and Eb. It is the 2nd relative mode of Eb major. Use it to study the scale's notes, interval formula, and guitar fretboard positions.
- Notes
- F, G, Ab, Bb, C, D, Eb
- Formula
- 1 2 b3 4 5 6 b7
- Semitones
- 0 2 3 5 7 9 10
- Parent scale
- Eb major
How to read this scale
The notes are shown as pitch classes first. Square markers representF root notes in the fretboard view, while circular markers represent the other notes in the scale.
Use the interactive fretboard to locate the F root notes and connect the remaining dorian tones across standard tuning.
Sound and defining tones
F Dorian combines a minor third with a natural sixth: b3 (Ab) and 6 (D). The minor third keeps the mode minor, while the natural sixth makes it brighter than F natural minor.
- Characteristic tones
- b3Ab6D
Fretboard diagram
Open this scale in the fretboard tool
Start with F Dorian loaded, then adjust tuning, labels, colors, fret count, and orientation.
Open in interactive fretboardCommon chords and contexts
Use F Dorian over a sustained Fm or Fm7 sound, especially when the harmony includes the natural sixth and does not establish the flat sixth from natural minor.
- Use F Dorian over Fm7 chords when a minor sound needs a natural 6.
- It is common in funk, jazz, fusion, and minor vamp situations.
Practice this scale on guitar
- Play F Dorian from one F root to the next in at least two fretboard positions, saying each note name and scale degree aloud.
- Build two- and three-note ideas that move between b3 (Ab) and 6 (D), listening for the contrast between the minor third and natural sixth.
- Loop Fm7 as a static vamp and end alternating phrases on the root, flat third, and natural sixth to hear their different levels of stability.