Locrian mode scale (3 notes per string)

The Locrian mode is the 7th mode of the C Major scale.
It is not as used as the others.
It is sometimes found in Jazz.
Formula : 1/2 - 1 - 1 - 1/2 - 1 - 1 - 1

Locrian Mode
The Locrian mode is the most atypical and unstable of the seven diatonic modes. It is rarely used in traditional Western music due to its highly dissonant and tense sound. However, it finds application in jazz, metal, and certain forms of modern music. Here’s a detailed explanation:

Structure of the Locrian Mode
The Locrian mode is characterized by a diminished fifth, giving it a particularly tense sound. In terms of intervals, the Locrian mode is structured as follows:

Half step (H)
Whole step (W)
Whole step (W)
Half step (H)
Whole step (W)
Whole step (W)
Whole step (W)
In the key of B, the Locrian mode consists of the following notes:

1. B
2. C
3. D
4. E
5. F
6. G
7. A
Notes of the Locrian Mode in B
1. B - Tonic
2. C - Minor second
3. D - Minor third
4. E - Perfect fourth
4. F - Diminished fifth
5. G - Minor sixth
6. A - Minor seventh

Pattern on the Guitar Neck
Here is a diagram for the Locrian mode in B on the guitar neck:

e|------------------------0-2-3-|
B|--------------------1-3-------|
G|---------------0-2------------|
D|----------0-2-----------------|
A|----0-1-3---------------------|
E|-0-2--------------------------|

Using the Locrian Mode
1. Improvisation: The Locrian mode is excellent for improvising over half-diminished seventh chords (e.g., Bm7♭5). It provides a very dark and tense sound that can be used to create a dramatic atmosphere.

2. Composition: Use the Locrian mode to compose pieces that require an extremely dissonant and unstable tone. It is perfect for passages of maximum tension before returning to more stable harmonies.

3. Riffs and Licks: Some riffs in metal and modern jazz use the Locrian mode to add a touch of dissonance and complexity.

Example of Use
To practice the Locrian mode, try playing simple phrases using the notes of the scale. For example:

e|------------------------------0-2-3---
B|-------------------------1-3----------
G|-------------------0-2----------------
D|-------------0-2----------------------
A|-------0-1-3--------------------------
E|--0-2---------------------------------

Then, try incorporating techniques like bends, slides, and hammer-ons to add variety and expression to your playing. For example:

e|-----------------------------------2-3---
B|-------------------------------3-5-------
G|--------------------------2-3------------
D|--------------------2-3------------------
A|-------------1-3-5-----------------------
E|------0-2-3------------------------------

Regular practice of these patterns will help you become familiar with the sound and expressive possibilities of the Locrian mode.

For more detailed tutorials, consider making videos on your YouTube channel, "Le Refuge du Guitariste," where you can explore the Locrian mode and its applications in different musical contexts.

Le mode Locrien est le 7ièm mode de la gamme de Do Majeur.
Elle n'est pas aussi utilisé que les autres.
On la retrouve parfois en Jazz.
Formule : 1/2 - 1 - 1 - 1/2 - 1 - 1 - 1
Guitare : Réjean Loiseau
Camera : Yves Gougeon