How do you harmonize the G dorian scale?

To harmonize G dorian, stack thirds from each scale degree to build diatonic chords. This produces triads and seventh chords that naturally fit within the key of G dorian.

G dorian chords

All guitar chords for the G dorian scale

Show scale diagram ↓

Chord Voicings

Harmony

Originalii–V–ISec. Dom.

G dorian scale diatonic chords

IG minor

IIA minor

IIIB♭ major

IVC major

VD minor

VIE dim

VIIF major

G dorian scale seventh chords

IG m7

IIA m7

IIIB♭ maj7

IVC 7

VD m7

VIE m7♭5

VIIF maj7

scale

Fretboard diagram

G dorian scale — chords and intervals

Harmonizing the G dorian scale yields a minor chord family with a distinctly brighter character thanks to the major IV chord. This single difference from natural minor opens up unique songwriting possibilities. The diatonic chords of G dorian are Gm7, Am7, BbMaj7, C7, Dm7, Em7b5, FMaj7. The i-IV vamp is the quintessential Dorian sound, heard in funk and jazz-rock. The presence of a major IV chord in a minor key creates an uplifting tension that makes Dorian progressions feel hopeful yet soulful. Commonly used in Funk, Jazz, Fusion, Neo-Soul, Blues. Notable players include Miles Davis, Herbie Hancock, Carlos Santana, D'Angelo.

The G dorian scale has the following degrees: 1 2 ♭3 4 5 6 ♭7.

Intervals: W-H-W-W-W-H-W.

Diatonic chords: Gm7, Am7, BbMaj7, C7, Dm7, Em7b5, FMaj7.

Degrees	Chord
I	Gm7
ii	Am7
iii	BbMaj7
IV	C7
V	Dm7
vi	Em7b5
vii°	FMaj7

Degree-by-Degree Analysis

The I chord (Gm7) is the tonic — the gravitational center of the key. The ii chord (Am7) is the minor subdominant, commonly used to approach the V chord. The iii chord (BbMaj7) functions as a substitute for the I or vi. The IV chord (C7) is the subdominant — it adds motion and moderate tension. The V chord (Dm7) is the dominant — it creates the strongest tension that wants to resolve to the I. The vi chord (Em7b5) is the relative minor — it brings emotional color and depth. The vii° chord (FMaj7) 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 G dorian 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 G dorian scale on guitar.

dorian is the 2nd mode of the Major scale. View G Major scale

Related Scales

How to Use This Scale

Use over m7, m9, m11, m13 chords. The go-to scale for any minor chord in funk, jazz, and soul. Works especially well over long minor vamps.