Authentic modes, also known as authentic scales, are one of the two main types of musical scales in Western music theory, the other being the plagal modes. The term "authentic" is derived from the Greek word "authenticos," which means "genuine" or "original."
In traditional Western music, authentic modes are characterized by having their final note, or tonal center, as the lowest and most stable pitch. These modes are further divided into four categories: Dorian, Phrygian, Lydian, and Mixolydian. Each of these modes has a distinctive pattern of whole and half steps, defining its unique tonal character.
Dorian mode is characterized by a minor scale with a raised sixth degree, which gives it a slightly lighter and brighter sound compared to the natural minor scale. Phrygian mode, on the other hand, is similar to the natural minor scale but with a lowered second degree, resulting in a stronger and more exotic tonality.
Lydian mode is a major scale with a raised fourth degree, creating a bright and dreamy sound. Lastly, Mixolydian mode is a major scale with a lowered seventh degree, producing a bluesy or folk-like quality.
Authentic modes have been widely used in various musical genres, including classical, jazz, rock, and traditional folk music. They provide composers and musicians with a versatile palette of tonal colors for creating melodies, harmonies, and improvisations.
In summary, authentic modes are a set of musical scales that are characterized by having a tonal center as the lowest and most stable pitch. They encompass four distinct modes, namely Dorian, Phrygian, Lydian, and Mixolydian, each with its own unique pattern of whole
