Key signature for dorian modes

Dorico
1

Is the key signature shown in a manner similar to a diatonic scale ? If so, what is the key signature for E flat dorian ?

2

Eb, F, Gb, Ab, Bb, C, Db, Eb

So Bb, Eb, Ab, Db, Gb ; fifth flats.

3

Yes, you use the same key signature as the major key that is a major second lower than the starting pitch of your Dorian scale. So, the key signature for Eb Dorian would be the same as the key signature for Db Major.

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4

For the sake of completeness, if it’s important to signify the presence of a minor mode other than Aeolian and alert performers to the major sixth, you can also use 6 flats as in Gb major and use natural accidentals for the occurrences of C Natural.

B.

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5

This is the way. Performers hate modal key signatures. Use the appropriate major or minor key sig and show the mode by using accidentals. (Or just use open key.)

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6

Absolutely right, my friend !
And, if we are curious, go to the page 21 of The Rite of Spring (ed Boosey & Hawkes, brown cover 1963) ; here, we are in Dorian mode on Eb (except horns 3 and 7 who plays a G natural in order to import some local dissonance ; typic stravinskian color) and Stravinsky write a Key Signature with 3 flats ; other alterations needed are written directly ahead the notes (Violas, e.g).
More, more clear in this way !

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