The Dorian scale is one of the seven musical modes and has a distinctive minor sound with a unique twist due to the raised sixth degree. It's commonly used in various musical genres, including jazz, blues, rock, and classical music.

Construction:

The Dorian scale is built using the following interval pattern:

• Whole step

• Half step

• Whole step

• Whole step

• Whole step

• Half step

• Whole step

In D Dorian, it would be:

• D (root)

• E (whole step)

• F (half step)

• G (whole step)

• A (whole step)

• B (whole step)

• C (half step)

• D (octave)

Features:

• Minor tonality: The Dorian mode has a minor tonality, characterized by a minor third (between the root and the third degree).

• Raised sixth degree: The defining feature of the Dorian mode is its raised sixth degree (compared to the natural minor scale). This creates a brighter and more ambiguous sound compared to the natural minor scale.

Chord Construction:

• Tonic chord (i): D minor (D, F, A)

• Supertonic chord (ii): E minor (E, G, B)

• Mediant chord (III): F major (F, A, C)

• Subdominant chord (iv): G major (G, B, D)

• Dominant chord (v): A minor (A, C, E)

• Submediant chord (vi°): B diminished (B, D, F)

• Subtonic chord (VII): C major (C, E, G)

Usage:

• Jazz and Blues: The Dorian mode is widely used in jazz and blues, especially for improvisation over minor chords because of its unique flavor.

• Folk and Rock: It is also commonly found in folk and rock music, providing a mix of minor tonality with a touch of brightness from the raised sixth.

• Classical Music: The Dorian mode has been used in classical compositions to evoke an ancient or modal sound.

The Dorian scale is versatile and provides a rich harmonic palette, balancing the dark and light elements, making it a favorite among musicians in various genres.