D# Double Harmonic Lydian Guitar Scale — Open D
Guitar scale in Open D tuning — fretboard diagram
D# Double Harmonic Lydian in Open D — Notes and Intervals
The D# Double Harmonic Lydian scale is a majestic variation that combines Byzantine exoticism with the brightness of the Lydian mode. On Guitar, its notes are D#, E, G, A, A#, B, D. It creates a powerful, otherworldly sound that is perfect for epic fantasy or sci-fi scores. Commonly used in Film Scores, Fantasy, Progressive Metal. Notable players include Hans Zimmer, Opeth. Use over Maj7#11 chords in epic, fantasy-themed compositions. A specialized cinematic color.
Notes: D#, E, G, A, A#, B, D
Intervals: 1P, 2m, 3M, 4A, 5P, 6m, 7M
Degrees: 1 b2 3 #4 5 b6 7
Formula: H-WH-W-H-H-WH-H
Number of notes: 7
Tuning: Open D (D-A-D-F#-A-D)
About Open D Tuning
Open D tuning (D-A-D-F#-A-D) produces a full D major chord when strummed open, creating a warm, resonant sound that has been a staple of slide guitar, folk, and acoustic music for over a century. The three D strings create a deep, droning foundation that makes even simple chord shapes sound lush and full.
Open D is closely related to Open E (same intervals, just a whole step lower) but puts less tension on the guitar neck, making it safer for acoustic instruments. It was a favorite of Joni Mitchell, who used it extensively for her unique chord voicings, and Bob Dylan, who popularized it in folk-rock. For slide players, Open D provides the same intuitive major-chord-at-any-fret approach as Open G but with a warmer, deeper character.
Notable artists: Joni Mitchell, Bob Dylan, Richie Havens, Bruce Cockburn, Elmore James
Best for: Slide guitar, folk fingerpicking, singer-songwriter arrangements, and acoustic compositions with rich open-string resonance
Explore This Scale in Other Tunings
- D# Double Harmonic Lydian in Standard Tuning
- D# Double Harmonic Lydian in Drop D
- D# Double Harmonic Lydian in DADGAD
- D# Double Harmonic Lydian in Open G
- D# Double Harmonic Lydian in Baritone (B Standard)
- D# Double Harmonic Lydian in 7-string
- D# Double Harmonic Lydian in 8-string
- D# Double Harmonic Lydian in Drop C
- D# Double Harmonic Lydian in Drop B
- D# Double Harmonic Lydian in Half Step Down
- D# Double Harmonic Lydian in Open E
- D# Double Harmonic Lydian in Open A
- D# Double Harmonic Lydian in Double Drop D
- D# Double Harmonic Lydian in Open C