MusicianCV · TRModal centre shift
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Scale families and changes
Modal centre shift · C Ionian → D Dorian → C → D
Play the notes against a pedal. Degree 1 is the centre. Altered degrees are measured against the major scale on that centre.
Example
Pitch material / distinctive motion · C Ionian → D Dorian / C → D
Pitch material / distinctive motionC Ionian → D Dorian C → D
Try it
How do you emphasise the colour while keeping the centre clear?
Answer
Feature the characteristic pitch in a short phrase, then return to the pedal. Repeat over a different bass to hear the contrast.Related topics
Modes: pitch collection and centreReferences
Music Theory for the 21st-Century Classroom · Further reading
Subject-expert review pending.