Build the Mixolydian Scale with Key Signature

The Mixolydian scale uses the key signature of the major scale on its tonic. First write that key signature, then the scale: because it is a major scale with a lowered 7th, that 7th gets a natural (or flat) sign that lowers it against the key signature.

How to use the exercise: Step 1 (key signature): choose Sharp or Flat and click on the staff to place each accidental of the key signature in its order. Step 2 (scale): with the key signature in place, put in the notes of the scale. They inherit the key signature automatically; press ♮ / ♯ / ♭ only when a note needs an accidental of its own. Undo and Clear work in each step. The magnifier shows what you are about to place.

A major mode with a minor 7th

The Mixolydian scale is written with the key signature of the major scale on its tonic, but with the 7th degree lowered by a half step. That lowering is not in the key signature: it is written as an accidental (a natural or a flat) on the affected note.

The lowered 7th as an accidental

In G Mixolydian the key signature is the one of G major (F♯), but the 7th degree is lowered to F♮: it is written with a natural sign. In C Mixolydian, with no key signature, the 7th (B) is lowered to B♭. This is the color of the Mixolydian mode, common in blues, rock and folk music.

Key	Key signature	Scale
G Mixolydian	1♯ (F♯)	G A B C D E F♮ G
C Mixolydian	none	C D E F G A B♭ C
D Mixolydian	2♯ (F♯ C♯)	D E F♯ G A B C♮ D

Printable worksheet (PDF)

The same exercise on paper, for class: eight Mixolydian scales to write with a key signature: first the key signature, then the scale, with only the accidentals that depart from it. With a separate answer sheet, with the answers in red.

It goes from easier to harder: first key signatures with few accidentals in treble clef, then more accidentals and the bass clef.

Printable PDF worksheet for writing Mixolydian scales with a key signature — A4 sheet for writing Mixolydian scales with a key signature.

Download the worksheet (PDF A4) Answers

You may print and photocopy the worksheets freely for the classroom. There are also worksheets of this same type for identifying and writing, and in the scales index you can create custom worksheets, mixing whichever types you like.

Frequently Asked Questions

What key signature does the Mixolydian scale use?

The one of the major scale on its tonic. G Mixolydian uses the key signature of G major (one sharp).

How do I write the lowered 7th?

As an accidental on the note: a natural sign if the key signature raised it (G Mixolydian: F♮) or a flat if the key signature did not alter it (C Mixolydian: B♭).

How is it different from the major scale?

Only in the 7th degree: Mixolydian lowers it by a half step. The rest is identical to the major scale.

Where is the Mixolydian scale used?

It is common in blues, rock, funk and many folk traditions, because of its minor 7th.

Practice these scales with the online metronome and check your tuning with the online tuner. You can also try the version with the accidentals written note by note.