C♯ lydian #9 scale diatonic chords
C♯ lydian #9 scale seventh chords
scale
Fretboard diagram
C# lydian #9 scale — chords and intervals
The harmonized C# lydian #9 scale produces an aggressive, high-energy chord family with both a raised fourth and a raised ninth that create intense harmonic friction. The chords from C# lydian #9 are C# major, E diminished, F minor, G diminished, G# augmented, A# minor, C major. These chords are designed for fusion and modern jazz solos where maximum intensity and complexity are desired. The double alteration creates a biting, energetic harmonic palette. Commonly used in Fusion, Modern Jazz, Progressive. Notable players include Allan Holdsworth, Brett Garsed.
The C# lydian #9 scale has the following degrees: 1 ♯2 3 ♯4 5 6 7.
Intervals: 3H-H-W-H-W-W-H.
Diatonic chords: C# major, E diminished, F minor, G diminished, G# augmented, A# minor, C major.
| Degrees | Chord |
|---|---|
| I | C# major |
| ii | E diminished |
| iii | F minor |
| IV | G diminished |
| V | G# augmented |
| vi | A# minor |
| vii° | C major |
Degree-by-Degree Analysis
The I chord (C# major) is the tonic — the gravitational center of the key. The ii chord (E diminished) is the minor subdominant, commonly used to approach the V chord. The iii chord (F minor) functions as a substitute for the I or vi. The IV chord (G diminished) is the subdominant — it adds motion and moderate tension. The V chord (G# augmented) 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 (C major) 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 #9 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 #9 scale on guitar.
Related Scales
How to Use This Scale
Use over 7#9#11 chords. A specialized fusion tool for adding a sharp, biting edge to Lydian-based lines.