Modal Interchange

Modal interchange is a technique where chords from parallel modes (scales sharing the same tonic) are borrowed and used in a piece. For example, in a song in C major, a musician might borrow chords from C minor, C Dorian, or C Mixolydian modes. This creates interesting harmonic colors and emotional shifts within a piece. Jazz pianist Chick Corea frequently used modal interchange in compositions like "Spain," while guitarist Pat Metheny incorporates this technique to create his distinctive sound that blends jazz harmony with folk-like simplicity. In rock music, bands like Steely Dan regularly employed modal interchange to create their sophisticated sound.