Lydian Mode

Major with a Dreamy #4

The Lydian mode follows the pattern W-W-W-H-W-W-H.

Starting from F: F-G-A-B-C-D-E.

Lydian is like a major scale with a raised 4th degree. Compared to F major (F-G-A-Bb-C-D-E), the only difference is B natural instead of Bb.

That raised 4th is the Lydian signature — the tritone against the root. It gives Lydian its dreamy, suspended, cinematic sound. Composers reach for Lydian whenever they want brightness past plain major.

F Lydian Scale

Study the F Lydian scale ascending. Notice the B natural — the raised 4th that gives Lydian its glow.

Play F Lydian

• Play the F Lydian scale ascending and descending
• Hover on the B natural — the raised 4th is what you are training your ear to recognize
• Contrast with F major: one note changes the emotional color dramatically