The Phrygian mode
The Phrygian mode is quite different from most other modes in a number of ways. Take a look at the Mixolydian mode for example. It contains a major 3rd and also, extracting notes 1, 3, 5 and 7, it forms the dominant 7 chord which has a strong relationship with this mode.
For this exercise we are in the key of Ab major. The Mixolydian mode is built on step 5 of the scale.
How the Mixolydian mode differs from the Phrygian mode
So here’s the Eb Mixolydian mode.
![](https://www.learnjazzpianoonline.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Eb-mix-mode_0001-1-1024x113.png)
How the Dorian mode differs from the Phrygian mode
And now take a look at the Bb Dorian mode. This is built on step 2 of the major scale.
![Bb Dorian mode](https://www.learnjazzpianoonline.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Bb-dorian_0001-1024x120.png)
Notice how in the two examples above notes 1, 3, 5 and 7 form the chord associated with its mode.
The Phrygian mode
The Phrygian mode is built on step 3 of the major scale. Step 3 of the Ab major scale is the note C so here is how it looks.
![](https://www.learnjazzpianoonline.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/C-phrygian_0001.png)
Although this mode still contains steps 4, 5 and 7, notice that it does not contain a 3. And, even more strangely, the second note is a flat 2!
Left hand voicings for C Phrygian
Here are some Phrygian voicings you can try for yourself.
![](https://www.learnjazzpianoonline.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/phrygian-voicings_0001-1-1024x189.png)
And here is my Youtube video all about the Phrygian mode.
The Spanish version
The Spanish Phrygian adds the major 3rd. Here’s the Spanish Phrygian mode in C.
![](https://www.learnjazzpianoonline.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/spanish-phrygian_0001-1024x116.png)
And finally, click here for my online video course.