A dorian b2 scale diatonic chords
A dorian b2 scale seventh chords
scale
Fretboard diagram
A dorian b2 scale — chords and intervals
The harmonized A dorian b2 scale generates a dark, sophisticated chord family that combines Dorian warmth with the Phrygian-like tension of a flat second. The chords from A dorian b2 are A minor, Bb augmented, C major, D major, E diminished, F# diminished, G minor. The i-bII movement is both brooding and elegant, used in modern jazz and film scoring to evoke complexity and unease. The chord family provides smooth voice leading options between minor and dominant harmonies. Commonly used in Jazz, Film Scores, Fusion, Contemporary. Notable players include Wayne Shorter, Kenny Garrett, Brad Mehldau.
The A dorian b2 scale has the following degrees: 1 ♭2 ♭3 4 5 6 ♭7.
Intervals: H-W-W-W-W-H-W.
Diatonic chords: A minor, Bb augmented, C major, D major, E diminished, F# diminished, G minor.
| Degrees | Chord |
|---|---|
| I | A minor |
| ii | Bb augmented |
| iii | C major |
| IV | D major |
| V | E diminished |
| vi | F# diminished |
| vii° | G minor |
Degree-by-Degree Analysis
The I chord (A minor) is the tonic — the gravitational center of the key. The ii chord (Bb augmented) is the minor subdominant, commonly used to approach the V chord. The iii chord (C major) functions as a substitute for the I or vi. The IV chord (D major) is the subdominant — it adds motion and moderate tension. The V chord (E diminished) is the dominant — it creates the strongest tension that wants to resolve to the I. The vi chord (F# diminished) is the relative minor — it brings emotional color and depth. The vii° chord (G minor) is the diminished — the most tense, rarely used alone, usually leading to the I.
This page focuses on the harmonic content — the chords built from each degree of the A dorian b2 scale. For fretboard patterns and fingering guides, see the scale page.
Use the interactive harmonizer above to explore triads, seventh chords, and chord voicings for composing with the A dorian b2 scale on guitar.
dorian b2 is the 2nd mode of the Melodic Minor scale. View A Melodic minor scale
Related Scales
How to Use This Scale
Use over m7, m9, sus(b9) chords. Works on the ii chord in a minor ii-V-i when you want extra tension.