C lydian augmented scale diatonic chords
C lydian augmented scale seventh chords
scale
Fretboard diagram
C lydian augmented scale — chords and intervals
Harmonizing the C lydian augmented scale yields a majestic chord family where both the fourth and fifth are raised, creating powerful, otherworldly harmonies. The chords of C lydian augmented are C augmented, D major, E major, F# diminished, G# diminished, A minor, B minor. The augmented tonic chord paired with the #IV creates epic, cinematic progressions. These chords are favored in film scores for scenes of wonder, revelation, and cosmic grandeur. Commonly used in Film Scores, Jazz, Fusion, Progressive. Notable players include John Williams, Wayne Shorter, Joe Satriani.
The C lydian augmented scale has the following degrees: 1 2 3 ♯4 ♯5 6 7.
Intervals: W-W-W-W-H-W-H.
Diatonic chords: C augmented, D major, E major, F# diminished, G# diminished, A minor, B minor.
| Degrees | Chord |
|---|---|
| I | C augmented |
| ii | D major |
| iii | E major |
| IV | F# diminished |
| V | G# diminished |
| vi | A minor |
| vii° | B minor |
Degree-by-Degree Analysis
The I chord (C augmented) is the tonic — the gravitational center of the key. The ii chord (D major) is the minor subdominant, commonly used to approach the V chord. The iii chord (E major) functions as a substitute for the I or vi. The IV chord (F# diminished) is the subdominant — it adds motion and moderate tension. The V chord (G# diminished) is the dominant — it creates the strongest tension that wants to resolve to the I. The vi chord (A minor) is the relative minor — it brings emotional color and depth. The vii° chord (B minor) is the diminished — the most tense, rarely used alone, usually leading to the I.
This page focuses on the harmonic content — the chords built from each degree of the C lydian augmented scale. For fretboard patterns and fingering guides, see the scale page.
Use the interactive harmonizer above to explore triads, seventh chords, and chord voicings for composing with the C lydian augmented scale on guitar.
lydian augmented is the 3rd mode of the Melodic Minor scale. View C Melodic minor scale
Related Scales
How to Use This Scale
Use over Maj7#5, Maj7#11 chords. Perfect for epic, cinematic moments that need to feel larger than life.