The Church Modes were a set of musical scales developed during the Middle Ages for Christian liturgical music. They were widely used until the 16th century when they were replaced by modern tonal harmony. The Church Modes are also known as the eight church tones, because each mode is comprised of eight notes.

The Church Modes are made up of seven distinct scales, each with its own distinct set of notes and intervals. These seven modes are: Dorian, Phrygian, Lydian, Mixolydian, Aeolian, Ionian, and Locrian. Each mode has its own distinct character and flavor, making it a useful tool for composers. In addition, these modes can produce a variety of harmonic frameworks and textures.

Dorian Mode is the simplest and most common mode, and is a minor-sounding scale. It is made up of two whole-step intervals followed by a half-step, and the Dorian mode is often used in traditional folk music.

Phrygian Mode is a minor-sounding scale that is built from two half-steps followed by a whole-step. This mode is commonly used in flamenco and classical music.

Lydian Mode is a major-sounding scale that is built from two whole-steps followed by a half-step. This mode is commonly used in jazz music.

Mixolydian Mode is a major-sounding scale that is built from two half-steps followed by a whole-step. This mode is commonly used in blues and rock music.

Aeolian Mode is a minor-sounding scale that is built from two whole-steps followed by a half-step. This mode is commonly used in classical and ambient music.

Ionian Mode is a major-sounding scale that is built from two half-steps followed by a whole-step. This mode is commonly used in pop and rock music.

Locrian Mode is a minor-sounding scale that is built from two whole-steps followed by a half-step. This mode is commonly used in metal and hard rock music.

The Church Modes are an important part of musical history, and they are still used today in a variety of genres. By understanding the unique characteristics of each mode, composers can easily create vibrant and interesting musical textures.

So, to answer the question: the Church Modes were a set of musical scales developed during the Middle Ages for Christian liturgical music, and they are made up of seven distinct scales, each with its own distinct set of notes and intervals.