The Complete Idiot''s Guide to Music Theory

Par t 1:Tones

Phrygian

The Phrygian mode can be thought of as starting on the third note of the

related major scale. Like the Dorian mode, it sounds like a natural minor

scale—but with a lowered second degree.

The intervals between notes in the Phrygian mode are as follows.

The Intervals of the Phrygian Mode

Note Half Steps to Next Note

Tonic 1

Second 2

Third 2

Fourth 2

Fifth 1

Sixth 2

Seventh 2

E Phrygian is relative to the key of C, and consists of the following notes:

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E Phrygian mode, relative to the key of C.

Lydian

The Lydian mode can be thought of as starting on the fourth note of a major

scale. It’s an almost-major scale, but with a raised fourth.

The intervals between notes in the Lydian mode are as follows.

The Intervals of the Lydian Mode

Note Half Steps to Next Note

Tonic 2

Second 2

Third 2

Fourth 1

Fifth 2

Sixth 2

Seventh 1