F Double Harmonic Lydian Bass Scale
Bass scale — fretboard diagram
F Double Harmonic Lydian Scale — Notes and Intervals
The F Double Harmonic Lydian scale is a majestic variation that combines Byzantine exoticism with the brightness of the Lydian mode. On Bass, its notes are F, Gb, A, B, C, Db, E. It creates a powerful, otherworldly sound that is perfect for epic fantasy or sci-fi scores. Commonly used in Film Scores, Fantasy, Progressive Metal. Notable players include Hans Zimmer, Opeth. Use over Maj7#11 chords in epic, fantasy-themed compositions. A specialized cinematic color.
Notes: F, Gb, A, B, C, Db, E
Intervals: 1P, 2m, 3M, 4A, 5P, 6m, 7M
Degrees: 1 b2 3 #4 5 b6 7
Formula: H-WH-W-H-H-WH-H
Number of notes: 7
How to Play F Double Harmonic Lydian on Bass
On bass, locate F on the E 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 F Double Harmonic Lydian scale contains 2 flats (Gb, Db). Its relative minor is Db minor, which shares the same notes.
Practice Routine
Begin by playing the F Double Harmonic Lydian scale ascending and descending at 80 BPM using a metronome, one note per beat. Once comfortable, practice in thirds (F-A, Gb-B) to build intervallic familiarity. Spend 5 minutes daily on this pattern before increasing tempo by 10 BPM.
Experiment with simple two-chord vamps rooted on F to let the characteristic intervals of the Double Harmonic Lydian scale come through clearly.
Bass Tips
Practice the F Double Harmonic Lydian 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 F Double Harmonic Lydian scale contains 7 notes (F, Gb, A, B, C, Db, E). Use the interactive fretboard above to explore this scale on Bass with different tunings and fret ranges.
CAGED Positions & Patterns for F Double Harmonic Lydian
The F Double Harmonic Lydian 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.