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#, G, A#, C, C#, D, F. 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#, G, A#, C, C#, D, F
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 2. 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 3 sharps (F#, A#, C#). Its relative minor is D minor, which shares the same notes.
Practice Routine
Set a metronome to 80 BPM and play the F# Double Harmonic Lydian scale in groups of four notes, shifting the starting note each repetition. This builds muscle memory across the entire scale range. After a week, try improvising short 4-bar phrases using only these notes.
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
On bass, use the F# Double Harmonic Lydian scale to build walking bass lines by targeting chord tones on strong beats and using scale tones as approach notes. This is the foundation of functional bass playing.
The F# Double Harmonic Lydian scale contains 7 notes (F#, G, A#, C, C#, D, F). 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.