Which mode is major with a flattened seventh degree?

Which mode is major with a flattened seventh degree?

• A. Locrian
• B. Mixolydian
• C. Aeolian
• D. Ionian

Answer: (B)

This question tests recognizing a mode defined by a lowered seventh scale degree. In a major (Ionian) scale, the seventh degree is natural. Lowering that seventh by a half step creates a scale that still has a major-sounding pattern of intervals but with a b7, which is the defining feature of Mixolydian. For example, starting on C, the Mixolydian collection is C D E F G A Bb C. Other modes listed change different degrees or have a minor quality, so they don’t match the idea of a major mode with a flattened seventh. Therefore, the mode that fits is Mixolydian.

This question tests recognizing a mode defined by a lowered seventh scale degree. In a major (Ionian) scale, the seventh degree is natural. Lowering that seventh by a half step creates a scale that still has a major-sounding pattern of intervals but with a b7, which is the defining feature of Mixolydian. For example, starting on C, the Mixolydian collection is C D E F G A Bb C. Other modes listed change different degrees or have a minor quality, so they don’t match the idea of a major mode with a flattened seventh. Therefore, the mode that fits is Mixolydian.