G Lydian Mode

Hear the G Lydian Mode played for you.

G – A – B – C♯ – D – E – F♯

Formula:W-W-W-H-W-W-H

Intervals:P1-M2-M3-A4-P5-M6-M7-P8

Scale Degrees:1-2-3-♯4-5-6-7-8

Introduction

The G Lydian mode is the fourth mode of the D Major scale. It has a major sound with a raised fourth degree, giving it a bright, ethereal quality.

G Lydian Mode Notes

Degree	Name	Note	Interval
1	Tonic	G	P1
2	Supertonic	A	M2
3	Mediant	B	M3
♯4	Subdominant	C♯	A4
5	Dominant	D	P5
6	Submediant	E	M6
7	Leading Tone	F♯	M7

How Lydian Relates to the Major Scale

Mode

Key

G Lydian uses the same notes as D Major

Relative modes — all share the same notes

D Ionian=E Dorian=F♯ Phrygian=G Lydian=A Mixolydian=B Aeolian=C♯ Locrian

Common Tones

Common tones are the notes that two scales or modes share. Knowing which notes the G mode shares with its parallel modes (same root, different scale) helps with improvisation, modal interchange, and smooth voice leading. The more notes two modes share, the more closely related they sound — and the easier it is to slide between them in a solo or progression.

Parallel Mode	Common Notes	Shared / 7
G Dorian	G – A – B – C♯ – D – E – F♯ – G	8 / 7
G Phrygian	G – A – B – C♯ – D – E – F♯ – G	8 / 7
G Mixolydian	G – A – B – C♯ – D – E – F♯ – G	8 / 7
G Locrian	G – A – B – C♯ – D – E – F♯ – G	8 / 7
G Ionian	G – A – B – C♯ – D	5 / 7
G Aeolian	G – A – B – C♯ – D	5 / 7

G Lydian Mode — Frequently Asked Questions

What notes are in the G Lydian mode?

G Lydian contains: G, A, B, C#, D, E, F#. Fourth mode of D Major. Raised 4th (C# instead of C).

How does G Lydian differ from G Major?

One note: G Lydian has C# (augmented 4th), G Major has C (perfect 4th).

What is the parent major scale?

Fourth mode of D Major.

How is G Lydian used in music?

Film scores, jazz, progressive rock. A Major over G tonic is the signature.

What chords are built from G Lydian?

G, A, Bm, C#dim, D, Em, F#m.

What songs use Lydian?

Simpsons theme, John Williams, jazz.

Practice Tips

Raise C to C# — hear the Lydian floating quality.
A Major over G bass is the signature sound.
Practice over a G drone.
G Lydian is common in acoustic and folk-jazz.
Film scoring wonder and brightness.
Compare with G Major (Ionian).