Borrowed chord

Learn it in context

This term is introduced in Unit 13: Modes. Work through the explanations and exercises to connect the definition with music.

• Modal mixture

  Borrowing chords from the parallel minor.

Related music terms

Mode

A scale made by starting the major scale's notes on a different degree, each with its own colour.

Dorian

Minor with a raised 6th.

Phrygian

Minor with a lowered 2nd.

Lydian

Major with a raised 4th.

Mixolydian

Major with a lowered 7th.

Locrian

Lowered 2nd and 5th; its tonic triad is diminished.