A Dorian B2 Piano Scale
Piano scale diagram
A Dorian B2 Scale — Notes and Intervals
The A Dorian B2 scale is a soulful mode from the melodic minor system that combines the minor brightness of Dorian with the dark tension of a flattened second. On Piano, the notes are A, Bb, C, D, E, F#, G. It is used in modern jazz and film scores to create a sound that is both sophisticated and slightly unsettling. Commonly used in Jazz, Film Scores, Fusion, Contemporary. Notable players include Wayne Shorter, Kenny Garrett, Brad Mehldau. Use over m7, m9, sus(b9) chords. Works on the ii chord in a minor ii-V-i when you want extra tension.
Notes: A, Bb, C, D, E, F#, G
Intervals: 1P, 2m, 3m, 4P, 5P, 6M, 7m
Degrees: 1 b2 b3 4 5 6 b7
Formula: H-W-W-W-W-H-W
Number of notes: 7
Also known as: phrygian #6, melodic minor second mode
How to Play A Dorian B2 on Piano
On piano, the A Dorian B2 scale uses 2 black keys. Start with your thumb on A and use the black keys as landmarks for consistent finger placement. Standard major or minor fingering patterns apply.
The A Dorian B2 scale contains both sharps and flats (1 sharp, 1 flat), which is common in altered and exotic scales. Its relative major is C major, which shares the same key signature.
Practice Routine
Practice the A Dorian B2 scale by playing it ascending with one rhythmic feel (straight eighth notes) and descending with another (swing or triplets) at 80 BPM. This dual approach trains both technical accuracy and rhythmic versatility with the 7 notes of the scale.
Experiment with simple two-chord vamps rooted on A to let the characteristic intervals of the Dorian B2 scale come through clearly.
Piano Tips
On piano, practice the A Dorian B2 scale hands together in contrary motion (one hand ascending, the other descending). This builds independence and strengthens your awareness of the scale's symmetry.
The A Dorian B2 scale contains 7 notes (A, Bb, C, D, E, F#, G). Use the interactive piano diagram above to explore this scale on Piano.