Triad Chords for Modes of the Major Scale With Root C

This reference chart lists basic triad chords present naturally in all 7 modes of the Major scale. Additionally, all modes start with the same root note C to create a diagram of parallel modes. This chart also shows individual notes that make up every chord.

The concept in a nutshell: When you play different modes back to back, it becomes much easier to hear their distinct differences if they all start with the same root note, such as C-Dorian, C-Phrygian, C-Lydian and so on. This way, your ears get anchored to the same fundamental pitch, making any sudden alterations in the patterns of whole and half steps appear very prominent.

List of Chords and Modes Featured in This Chart

Types of Chords Featured in the Chart

Each chord presented in the table is one following 3 types of triad chords:

That is, there are no other types of chords in the chart, despite its abundance, except the ones mentioned above. So, if you know how to play these 3 chord types, then you can play any chord from the chart. How great is that?

How You Can Use This Chart

Here's a list of usage scenarios to inspire and give you an idea of how powerful and helpful a simple chart like this can be.

• Quick Reference: Use as an efficient reference tool to quickly look up any diatonic chord on any degree of all modes of the Major scale.
• Compatible Chords: Discover which chords sound good when played back-to-back. Chords in the same row fit together well in a progression since they all belong to the same key and share the same set of notes.
• Songwriting Magic Wand: Use as a songwriting tool when you want to create unique and colorful chord progressions using any mode of the Major scale or even a mix of them.
• Scale Analysis: Enhance your understanding of scales by observing this diagram. For example, it allows you to see what kinds of triad chords occur naturally in the scale. If you are looking for a scale that contains an Augmented chord then you'll notice that a Major scale (or any of its modes) is not a good fit as it does not include it, while a Harmonic Minor scale naturally does.
• Colorful Harmony: Sharing the same root note across all modes inspires the exploration of a music theory concept known as Modal Interchange—a composition technique that allows you to introduce more harmonic colors into your song by borrowing a chord from the parallel mode and inserting it into your existing chord progression.
• Creativity and Freedom: Parallel roots foster an exploration of a more advanced topic like Pitch Axis Theory employed by such guitarists as Joe Satriani, John Petrucci, Steve Vai, Guthrie Govan and others. Why this concept? Because it revolves around one central pitch/axis which is what parallel modes are about too. That is, in our case this axis is the same root note across all modes.

But you are free and encouraged to come up with other uses as well and share them in the comment section below, I'd be happy to read your ideas. That way you are also sharing your experience with the rest of the community.

Features and Benefits of the Chart

• Notes in Chords: If you're a beginner and need assistance with identifying the notes that make up the chords listed in the chart, then a separate variation that lists all the individual notes in the chords is also included.
• Chord Guide: A small handy guide to all chord types featured in the chart is conveniently positioned just below the table, so you don't have to distract yourself to look up additional reference.
• Color Coding: Chords from the same mode are highlighted using the same color simplifying your navigation of the chart.
• Parallel Roots: All modes start with the same root note.