IFR blog > Practice tips > Getting past the theory > Are the harmonic environments the modes

Q&A - Are the IFR harmonic environments the "modes"?

Are the seven harmonic environments that we're studying in IFR Exercise 2 the same thing as the “modes”?

In this video I'll define all of these terms, and I'll explain why we use the twin concepts of the tonal center and the harmonic environment in place of the term “modes”.

Modal jam in the 5th harmonic environment

Modal improvisation jam with tenor sax and upright bass

Modal jam in the 5th harmonic environment

Enjoy this great jam in the 5th harmonic environment recorded at the iconic jazz club Robadors 23 in Barcelona, Spain.

IFR exercise "Seven Worlds"

IFR modal improvisation exercise demonstration 'Seven Worlds'

IFR exercise "Seven Worlds"

For IFR students practicing Exercise 2: Melody, this is a demonstration of the exercise Seven Worlds in the sixth harmonic environment. Miguel 'Pintxo' Villar explores the harmonic environment on tenor sax.