B Lydian Banjo 5 String Scale
Banjo 5 String scale in Standard (Open G) tuning — fretboard diagram
B Lydian in Standard (Open G) — Notes and Intervals
The B Lydian scale is the fourth mode of the major scale and arguably the brightest sound in music theory. On Banjo 5 String, the notes are B, C#, D#, F, F#, G#, A#. It is known for its ethereal, dreamlike, and cinematic quality. Because it avoids the pull of the perfect fourth, it is a favorite for film composers wanting to evoke a sense of wonder or otherworldly space. The diatonic chords of B Lydian are BMaj7, C#7, D#m7, Fm7b5, F#Maj7, G#m7, A#m7. Commonly used in Film Scores, Progressive Rock, Fusion, Ambient, Dream Pop. Notable players include Joe Satriani, Steve Vai, John Williams, Hans Zimmer. Use over Maj7#11, Maj9 chords. Ideal for non-resolving major passages. Avoid when the music needs to feel grounded or resolved.
Notes: B, C#, D#, F, F#, G#, A#
Intervals: 1P, 2M, 3M, 4A, 5P, 6M, 7M
Degrees: 1 2 3 #4 5 6 7
Formula: W-W-W-H-W-W-H
Number of notes: 7
Tuning: Standard (Open G) (D-B-G-D-G)
Diatonic Chords
BMaj7 — C♯7 — D♯m7 — Fm7♭5 — F♯Maj7 — G♯m7 — A♯m7