Guitar scale
C# Lydian Guitar Scale
C# Lydian is a seven-note scale built from C#, D#, E#, F##, G#, A#, and B#. It is the 4th relative mode of G# major. Use it to study the scale's notes, interval formula, and guitar fretboard positions.
- Notes
- C#, D#, E#, F##, G#, A#, B#
- Formula
- 1 2 3 #4 5 6 7
- Semitones
- 0 2 4 6 7 9 11
- Parent scale
- G# major
How to read this scale
The notes are shown as pitch classes first. Square markers representC# root notes in the fretboard view, while circular markers represent the other notes in the scale.
Use the interactive fretboard to locate the C# root notes and connect the remaining lydian tones across standard tuning.
Sound and defining tones
C# Lydian keeps a major third but raises the fourth: 3 (E#) and #4 (F##). The raised fourth removes the ordinary major scale's half-step clash above the third and supplies the mode's bright, floating color.
- Characteristic tones
- 3E##4F##
Fretboard diagram
Open this scale in the fretboard tool
Start with C# Lydian loaded, then adjust tuning, labels, colors, fret count, and orientation.
Open in interactive fretboardCommon chords and contexts
Use C# Lydian over C# major, C#maj7, or C#maj7#11 harmony when the raised fourth is supported. A sustained major chord or pedal tone makes the modal color easiest to hear.
- Use C# Lydian over C#maj7 or C#maj7#11 sounds when the raised 4 belongs in the harmony.
- It keeps a major quality while adding a brighter, floating color than plain major.
Practice this scale on guitar
- Play C# Lydian from one C# root to the next in at least two fretboard positions, saying each note name and scale degree aloud.
- Play major-triad tones first, then add 3 (E#) and #4 (F##) so the raised fourth is heard as a color tone rather than an accidental passing note.
- Sustain a major chord rooted on C# and alternate phrases that use the perfect fifth with phrases that linger on the raised fourth before resolving.