C dorian #4 scale diatonic chords
C dorian #4 scale seventh chords
scale
Fretboard diagram
C dorian #4 scale — chords and intervals
Harmonizing the C dorian #4 scale produces a deeply soulful chord family with both Dorian warmth and a raised fourth that adds a Lydian sparkle. The chords of C dorian #4 are C minor, D major, Eb major, F# diminished, G minor, A diminished, Bb augmented. This is the harmonic foundation of Klezmer music, where the i-IV#-v pattern creates the characteristic crying, joyful sound. The augmented fourth adds an exotic tension that distinguishes this from standard Dorian harmony. Commonly used in Klezmer, Balkan Folk, Metal, Film Scores. Notable players include Itzhak Perlman, Bregovic, System of a Down.
The C dorian #4 scale has the following degrees: 1 2 ♭3 ♯4 5 6 ♭7.
Intervals: W-H-3H-H-W-H-W.
Diatonic chords: C minor, D major, Eb major, F# diminished, G minor, A diminished, Bb augmented.
| Degrees | Chord |
|---|---|
| I | C minor |
| ii | D major |
| iii | Eb major |
| IV | F# diminished |
| V | G minor |
| vi | A diminished |
| vii° | Bb augmented |
Degree-by-Degree Analysis
The I chord (C minor) is the tonic — the gravitational center of the key. The ii chord (D major) is the minor subdominant, commonly used to approach the V chord. The iii chord (Eb major) functions as a substitute for the I or vi. The IV chord (F# diminished) is the subdominant — it adds motion and moderate tension. The V chord (G minor) is the dominant — it creates the strongest tension that wants to resolve to the I. The vi chord (A diminished) is the relative minor — it brings emotional color and depth. The vii° chord (Bb augmented) 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 C dorian #4 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 C dorian #4 scale on guitar.
dorian #4 is the 4th mode of the Harmonic Minor scale. View C Harmonic minor scale
Related Scales
How to Use This Scale
Use over m7 chords in Klezmer and Balkan contexts. The #4 adds the exotic 'weeping' quality that defines these traditions.