The Aeolian Mode Back to Modes
The Aeolian mode originates from the 6th degree of the major scale eg. A to A in C major. Its scale degrees are R (root) 2 b3 4 5 b6 b7. Due to its b3 the Aeolian mode is minor, and is also known as the natural minor scale. The most defining character note of this mode is the minor 6th, which is the only note different from the Dorian mode whose character note is the major 6th. Where Dorian is sweet and mystical, Aeolian is bleak and mournful, often evoking a strong sense of sadness or even despair. Think of the Ex-Files theme tune… this is written in the Aeolian mode and demonstrates perfectly its sense of gloomy desolation!
Using the key of A Aeolian (A B C D E F G), we will now link this mode to how we play the 5 positions of the A minor pentatonic scale (A C D E G). The notes of the minor pentatonic scale exist inside the Aeolian Mode and it can be helpful to see this clearly so firstly learn to play the 5 pentatonic shapes below. The ‘A’ root notes are black and other scale degrees are red with the scale degree number inside them. Fret numbers are indicated to the left of each diagram. Next, ‘pin’ the Aeolian scale patterns onto the pentatonic ones and practice them one by one.
