B Dorian B2 Piano Scale
Piano scale diagram
B Dorian B2 Scale — Notes and Intervals
The B 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 B, C, D, E, F#, G#, A. 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: B, C, D, E, F#, G#, A
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 B Dorian B2 on Piano
On piano, the B Dorian B2 scale uses 2 black keys. Start with your thumb on B and use the black keys as landmarks for consistent finger placement. Standard major or minor fingering patterns apply.
The B Dorian B2 scale contains 2 sharps (F#, G#). Its relative major is D major, which shares the same key signature.
Practice Routine
Begin by playing the B Dorian B2 scale ascending and descending at 80 BPM using a metronome, one note per beat. Once comfortable, practice in thirds (B-D, C-E) to build intervallic familiarity. Spend 5 minutes daily on this pattern before increasing tempo by 10 BPM.
Experiment with simple two-chord vamps rooted on B to let the characteristic intervals of the Dorian B2 scale come through clearly.
Piano Tips
At the piano, try voicing the B Dorian B2 scale in the left hand as blocked intervals (thirds or sixths) while the right hand plays the melody. This develops your harmonic ear and comping skills simultaneously.
The B Dorian B2 scale contains 7 notes (B, C, D, E, F#, G#, A). Use the interactive piano diagram above to explore this scale on Piano.