Guitar scale
F# Dorian Guitar Scale
F# Dorian is a seven-note scale built from F#, G#, A, B, C#, D#, and E. It is the 2nd relative mode of E major. Use it to study the scale's notes, interval formula, and guitar fretboard positions.
- Notes
- F#, G#, A, B, C#, D#, E
- Formula
- 1 2 b3 4 5 6 b7
- Semitones
- 0 2 3 5 7 9 10
- Parent scale
- E 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 (A) and 6 (D#). The minor third keeps the mode minor, while the natural sixth makes it brighter than F# natural minor.
- Characteristic tones
- b3A6D#
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 F#m or F#m7 sound, especially when the harmony includes the natural sixth and does not establish the flat sixth from natural minor.
- Use F# Dorian over F#m7 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 (A) and 6 (D#), listening for the contrast between the minor third and natural sixth.
- Loop F#m7 as a static vamp and end alternating phrases on the root, flat third, and natural sixth to hear their different levels of stability.