How to Play a D Dorian Scale on Piano

Learning to play the D Dorian scale on piano takes far less time than many of the other scales built in Dorian mode. The scale has no flats and no sharps, and shares its key signature with C major. D Dorian has no black keys and forces your wrist position to be slightly lower than it would need to be in order to compensate for raised keys. Special attention should be given to the speed and flexibility with which you practice and perform this scale.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Practice the scale with your right hand only to start. Place your thumb on D5. Ascend a minor third interval through the notes D, E and F natural. Bring your thumb under your middle finger to G5. Raise your wrist just slightly when making this finger crossing so that the thumb doesn't hit the outside edges of the piano keys and slow down the movement. Continue to play the remaining perfect fifth interval through G, A, B, C and D natural. Your pinkie finger should land one octave higher than where you started on D6.

2. Turn the octave and descend the D Dorian scale. No finger crossings or pivoting is required to turn the octave at the top of the scale, so this is a good opportunity to master turning with as much speed and accuracy as possible. Descend the first perfect fifth interval through the notes D, C, B, A and G natural. Cross your middle finger over your thumb at F5. Play the last minor third interval of the scale through F, E and D natural. Your thumb should now be in its starting position at D5.

3. Focus on playing with your left hand. Place your pinkie finger on D4 to begin. Ascend a perfect fifth interval through D, E, F, G, and A natural (A4). Cross your middle finger over your thumb at B5 and continue the final minor third interval through B, C and D natural. Your thumb should be in position one octave higher than where it started and on D5.

4. Descend the D Dorian scale. Come down a minor third through D, C and B stopping on B5. Bring your thumb under your middle finger at A5. Descend the remaining perfect fifth interval through D, G, F, E and D. Stop with your thumb in position on D4.

5. Practice this scale with both hands at the same time. Practice going up and down the D Dorian scale at a tempo of no less than 95 beats per minute to start. Focus on clean finger attacks and quick speed through the octave turn. This scale should be practiced at a maximum tempo of 180 beasts per minute.