A# Lydian #9 Bass Scale
Bass scale — fretboard diagram
A# Lydian #9 Scale — Notes and Intervals
The A# Lydian #9 scale is an exotic and aggressive variation of the Lydian mode. On Bass, the notes are A#, B##, D, E, F, G, A. It features a wide melodic gap that gives it a fusion edge, perfect for high-energy solos and modern jazz compositions that require a sharp, biting sound. Commonly used in Fusion, Modern Jazz, Progressive. Notable players include Allan Holdsworth, Brett Garsed. Use over 7#9#11 chords. A specialized fusion tool for adding a sharp, biting edge to Lydian-based lines.
Notes: A#, B##, D, E, F, G, A
Intervals: 1P, 2A, 3M, 4A, 5P, 6M, 7M
Degrees: 1 #2 3 #4 5 6 7
Formula: WH-H-W-H-W-W-H
Number of notes: 7
How to Play A# Lydian #9 on Bass
On bass, locate A# on the A string at fret 1. Use a one-finger-per-fret approach starting from the root and span two to three strings. Keep your fretting hand relaxed and practice shifting between positions cleanly.
The A# Lydian #9 scale contains 2 sharps (A#, B##). Its relative minor is G minor, which shares the same notes.
Practice Routine
Practice the A# Lydian #9 scale by playing it ascending with one rhythmic feel (straight eighth notes) and descending with another (swing or triplets) at 80 BPM. This dual approach trains both technical accuracy and rhythmic versatility with the 7 notes of the scale.
Experiment with simple two-chord vamps rooted on A# to let the characteristic intervals of the Lydian #9 scale come through clearly.
Bass Tips
Practice the A# Lydian #9 scale on bass using only your index and ring fingers for a two-finger-per-string approach, then switch to one-finger-per-fret. Both techniques are essential for different musical situations.
The A# Lydian #9 scale contains 7 notes (A#, B##, D, E, F, G, A). Use the interactive fretboard above to explore this scale on Bass with different tunings and fret ranges.
CAGED Positions & Patterns for A# Lydian #9
The A# Lydian #9 scale can be played in 5 CAGED positions across the fretboard, each based on an open chord shape (C, A, G, E, D). As a 7-note scale, it also lends itself to 3-notes-per-string (3NPS) patterns that facilitate legato playing and diagonal shifting. Use the pattern selector above to isolate each position.