Mixolydian Mode Ear Training
The Mixolydian mode sounds like a major scale with a bluesy edge — bright and happy, but with a flatted 7th that adds a funky, rock-and-roll character. It is essential for blues, rock, and folk music.
What is the Mixolydian mode?
Mixolydian is the 5th mode of the major scale. Starting from G using only white keys gives you G-A-B-C-D-E-F-G — the G Mixolydian scale.
Compared to the regular major scale, the only difference is the flatted 7th degree. This creates a scale that is "almost major" but with a slight earthiness.
Where you'll hear Mixolydian
- "Sweet Home Alabama" by Lynyrd Skynyrd — classic Mixolydian rock.
- "Norwegian Wood" by The Beatles — Mixolydian melody.
- Blues guitar solos frequently use Mixolydian over dominant 7th chords.
- Celtic and Irish folk music is heavily Mixolydian.
How to recognize Mixolydian
- It sounds "major but earthy" — happy, but not as bright as a pure major scale.
- The flatted 7th creates a subtle "pulling down" sensation near the top of the scale.
- Compare it to the major scale: if it sounds major but "doesn't quite resolve" at the top, it's likely Mixolydian.
- Practice alongside Major and Lydian in BananaTone to hear the differences.
Ready to practice?
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