The Lydian mode is one of seven modes in music. It is known for its magical and romantic sound similar to the major scale, but with a more wondrous energy. The mode is used in various genres, such as orchestral video game soundtracks, TV, film and pop music.
In this article, we will explore the Lydian mode, learn how to compose and play it in any key, and discover some popular songs that feature it.
If you're not familiar with scales, whole steps and half steps yet, start with this overview guide on scales, which will prepare you for learning more about Lydian.
What does Lydian sound like?
When you play the Lydian scale, it sounds like a major scale, but with one key difference: an augmented fourth instead of a perfect fourth. This alteration changes the relationship between the third, fourth, and fifth notes, giving Lydian its unique sound.
A great modern example of the Lydian mode can be heard in The Simpsons' theme tune, which plays with the augmented fourth frequently to create a magical aura.
For more examples of Lydian in popular music, check out the list at the bottom of this article.
Learning the Lydian Mode
The Lydian mode is a scale with a unique pattern of whole and half steps: W-W-W-H-W-W-H.
| Step pattern | Main characteristics | Example track |
| W-W-W-H-W-W-H | Major 3rd, Augmented 4th | The Simpsons Main Theme (Melody) |
Once you have learned this pattern, you can play the Lydian mode in any key. To make it easier to remember, you can use the C major scale as a reference.
C major starting on C
If you take the C major scale - which is all the white notes - and start and end on F instead of C, you'll get the Lydian mode in F. It's really that straightforward!
F Lydian starting on F
Mnemonic
Lydia is a Fairy (= Lydian has a fairylike sound, play all white notes starting from F).
Lydian has a similar feel to a major key, but what makes it stand out is the relationship between the above notes A, B and C. Moving from B to C makes the scale feel more uplifting - or as in the Simpsons’ theme, more comedic! - compared to the major scale.
How these notes relate to each other is what gives Lydian a sound you don’t get with a major key. Experimenting with the augmented 4th will help you understand the special qualities of Lydian.
If you want to play the Lydian mode in a different key, simply apply the whole-step/half-step pattern to a different starting key, and it will be Lydian every time. Here is an example of Lydian in G.
G Lydian starting on G
Alternative Method
If you're more familiar with major scales, you can simply play the major scale of your chosen key, sharpen the fourth note, and voilà - you’re now a Lydian master!
F major starting on F
F Lydian starting on F
Want to learn all 7 modes in music? Start with this free beginner-friendly overview.
Summary
The notes of the Lydian mode can be found by either of the 2 methods:
- Apply the whole-step/half-step pattern of W-W-W-H-W-W-H.
- Play the major scale and sharpen the 4th note.
- Play all white notes starting from F (“fairylike Lydian”)
The Lydian mode adds an uplifting and magical tone to your music, and it is worth trying when a major scale doesn't feel quite right. It can also lend a whimsical element to your music that you may not be able to achieve in a conventional major scale. So don't miss out on the unique characteristics of the Lydian - explore and discover!
Now it’s time to sprinkle some Lydian magic and take your audience on a wondrous musical journey they won't forget!
Learn the other Modes
Ionian
Bright like the clear sky on a sunny day. Read article.
Dorian
Light and darkness in perfect balance. Read article.
Phrygian
A mysterious and ancient sound. Read article.
Mixolydian
Upbeat, cheerful and groovy. Read article.
Aeolian
Melancholy and sadness on a rainy day. Read article.
Locrian
Unsettling and edgy vibes. Read article.
Lydian Mode in popular music
- Free Will - Rush
- Fleetwood Mac - Dreams and Landslide
- Joe Satriani - Flying in a Blue Dream (Opening)
- Koji Kondo - Zelda’s Lullaby
Exercise
With the information you’ve learned, can you find the mistake in this scale, which is supposed to be Lydian in Ab? Click the image to see the correct answer.
