C# Lydian Guitar Scale
Guitar scale in 7-string tuning — fretboard diagram
C# Lydian in 7-string — Notes and Intervals
The C# Lydian scale is the fourth mode of the major scale and arguably the brightest sound in music theory. On Guitar, the notes are C#, D#, F, G, G#, A#, C. 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 C# Lydian are C#Maj7, D#7, Fm7, Gm7b5, G#Maj7, A#m7, Cm7. 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: C#, D#, F, G, G#, A#, C
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: 7-string (E-B-G-D-A-E-B)
Diatonic Chords
C♯Maj7 — D♯7 — Fm7 — Gm7♭5 — G♯Maj7 — A♯m7 — Cm7
Explore This Scale in Other Tunings
- C# Lydian in Standard Tuning
- C# Lydian in Drop D
- C# Lydian in DADGAD
- C# Lydian in Open G
- C# Lydian in Baritone (B Standard)
- C# Lydian in 8-string
- C# Lydian in Drop C
- C# Lydian in Drop B
- C# Lydian in Open D
- C# Lydian in Half Step Down
- C# Lydian in Open E
- C# Lydian in Open A
- C# Lydian in Double Drop D
- C# Lydian in Open C