Using Aeolian or Dorian over A minor?

[Robert]

Which of these two modes is the correct one to use over a static A Minor chord?

Find out here!


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YQX08OLk6OM

[marnold]

Before watching the video, I'd say: unless you are using a chord voicing that includes the 6th for some reason, either would work.

After watching the video: I was right :)

Santana must use the Dorian a bunch because it seemed like I was hearing hints of him when you were playing that mode.

[Robert]

Yes yes! I hinted at Santana just for giggles. Glad you noticed. He uses Dorian A LOT. It's a nice sound for sure.

Also, the I minor chord to IV major chord is extremely common in several styles of music. Like Am to D7 for example. In those situations, you'd use Dorian.

[tjcurtin1]

Beautiful sounds using those modes, Robert - I can see that modes will be the next nut for me to crack after arpeggios...

The beard looks great on you, by the way!

[Jimi75]

Here’s one big mistake people often make. Yes, they learn an internalize the sound of a certain mode, but they are only able to noodle to a backing track. It’s crucial to also learn the chords of a mode and then try to compose something of your own that you can relate to that you understand and that can use in a composing context. This is where the magic begins - maybe not for aeolian as most guys know aeolian, Ionian and dorian, but the rest has some nice twists - just ask people like Sting...he knows about lydian verses very well..