C Lydian Guitar Scale
Guitar scale in 8-string tuning — fretboard diagram
C Lydian in 8-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, E, F#, G, A, B. 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 CMaj7, D7, Em7, F#m7b5, GMaj7, Am7, Bm7. 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, E, F#, G, A, B
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: 8-string (E-B-G-D-A-E-B-F#)
Diatonic Chords
CMaj7 — D7 — Em7 — F♯m7♭5 — GMaj7 — Am7 — Bm7