All Modes
Degree IV

Lydian Mode

Dreamy & Ethereal, Floating & Magical

Interval Formula
W W W H W W H
C 1
D 2
E 3
F# 4
G 5
A 6
B 7
C

Overview

Lydian is a major mode with a raised 4th degree - the tritone above the root. This single alteration from the major scale creates an ethereal, floating, almost dream-like quality. It is the favorite mode of film composers for conveying wonder, magic, and the supernatural.

The raised 4th (the tritone) in Lydian creates an unstable, lifted quality that prevents the music from feeling fully grounded. Unlike Ionian, where the 4th naturally resolves downward, Lydian's #4 tends to float upward toward the 5th. The II chord in Lydian is a major chord, creating a distinctive major-to-major resolution. John Williams used this extensively in E.T. and other film scores.

Pro Tip: To instantly evoke Lydian, try a major chord followed by the major chord a whole step above it (e.g., F → G).

Famous Examples

  • The Simpsons Theme by Danny Elfman
  • Flying by The Beatles
  • Misty Mountain Hop by Led Zeppelin
  • Here Comes My Girl by Tom Petty

Characteristic Chord Progression

I – II – I – II
In F: F major – G major – F major – G major

Common Genres

Film ScoresAmbientProg RockVideo Games

Visualize Lydian Mode

See Lydian highlighted on a piano keyboard. Change the root note to explore all 12 keys.

Mode Ionian
Root C
Character Bright & Major
Scale Notes
Interval Pattern