Quick overview of modes and how and when to use them

The Ionian mode – Also known as the major scale.

The dorian mode – Built on the second degree of the major scale, used over a minor family chord such as min6 or min13. A common chord progression would be a ii – V chord progression.

The phrygian mode – Built on the third degree of the major scale, although minor by description, this mode is often used over a sus(b9) chord. A common progression would be a iii – IV chord progression.

The lydian mode – Built on the fourth degree of the major scale, this mode is commonly used over a major family chord which may often include a raised 4th or 11th such as a maj7#11 chord.

The mixolydian mode – Built on the fifth degree of the major scale, this mode is used over an unaltered dominant chord.

The aolian mode– The natural minor scale. May be used over a minor family chord (but must not contain a major 6th in its voicing), but is more often used in a minor chord progression.

The locrian mode– Built on the seventh degree of the major scale, this mode is used over a min7b5 chord.
It’s sometimes helpful to think of modes in this format:

Dorian= major scale down a 2nd. (Ex: C dorian = Bb major)
Phrygian = major scale down a 3rd. (Ex: C Phrygian = Ab major)
Lydian = major scale up a 5th. (Ex: C lydian = G major)
Mixolydian = major scale up a 4th. (Ex: C mixolydian = F major)
Aolian = major scale up a minor 3rd. (Ex: C aolian = Eb major)
Locrian = major scale up a minor 2nd. (Ex: C locrian = Db major)