E Dorian #4 Cavaquinho Scale — Standard
Cavaquinho scale in Standard tuning — fretboard diagram
E Dorian #4 in Standard — Notes and Intervals
The E Dorian #4 scale, known in Eastern Europe as the Ukrainian Dorian or Misheberak, has a deeply soulful, crying quality. On Cavaquinho, the notes are E, F#, G, A#, B, C#, D. It is a pillar of Jewish Klezmer music and traditional Balkan folk songs. Commonly used in Klezmer, Balkan Folk, Metal, Film Scores. Notable players include Itzhak Perlman, Bregovic, System of a Down. Use over m7 chords in Klezmer and Balkan contexts. The #4 adds the exotic 'weeping' quality that defines these traditions.
Notes: E, F#, G, A#, B, C#, D
Intervals: 1P, 2M, 3m, 4A, 5P, 6M, 7m
Degrees: 1 2 b3 #4 5 6 b7
Formula: W-H-WH-H-W-H-W
Number of notes: 7
Tuning: Standard (D-G-B-D)
Also known as: ukrainian dorian, romanian minor, altered dorian
About Standard Tuning
The cavaquinho is a small four-string Brazilian instrument tuned D-G-B-D, producing a bright, punchy tone that drives the rhythm in samba, choro, and pagode. Its steel strings and small body create a percussive attack that cuts through percussion-heavy ensembles, making it the rhythmic backbone of Brazilian popular music.
The cavaquinho (also spelled cavaco) is to Brazilian music what the guitar is to rock — absolutely essential. In samba, the cavaquinho player provides the rhythmic centro (center) that holds the bateria (percussion section) together. In choro, it takes on a more melodic role, weaving intricate lines between the bandolim and guitar. Waldir Azevedo's 'Brasileirinho' is perhaps the most famous cavaquinho piece, showcasing the instrument's virtuosic potential. The cavaquinho is also the ancestor of the Hawaiian ukulele, brought to the islands by Portuguese immigrants.
Notable artists: Waldir Azevedo, Paulinho da Viola, Beth Carvalho, Nelson Cavaquinho, Luciana Rabello
Best for: Samba rhythm, choro melody and accompaniment, pagode, and Brazilian ensemble playing