F Lydian Scale
The F Lydian scale is the fourth mode of the C major scale, giving it a distinctive bright sound characterized by its raised fourth degree.
This page covers everything you need to know about the F Lydian scale: notes, intervals, theory, and how to play it on the piano.
F Lydian Scale Notes
The F Lydian mode contains the following notes:
F – G – A – B – C – D – EThese notes come directly from the C major parent scale, starting on its 4th degree (F).
F Lydian Piano Diagram
This diagram highlights which keys belong to the F Lydian scale, which is helpful for visualizing whole steps, half steps, and characteristic tones such as the augmented 4th (B), which gives this scale its signature sound.
F Lydian Scale Formula and Intervals
The interval formula for the Lydian mode is:
Whole – Whole – Half – Whole – Whole – Whole – HalfApplied to F, this gives us:
- F → G
- G → A
- A → B
- B → C
- C → D
- D → E
- E → F
Thus, F Lydian is built with the following scale degrees:
- Root (F)
- Major 2nd (G)
- Major 3rd (A)
- Augmented 4th (B)
- Perfect 5th (C)
- Major 6th (D)
- Major 7th (E)
This structure gives the Lydian mode its characteristic brightness, due to the distinctive augmented 4th.
Chords in the Key of F Lydian
When stacking thirds on each scale degree of the F Lydian scale, the following diatonic chords emerge:
- F major (I)
- G major (II)
- A minor (iii)
- B diminished (iv°)
- C major (V)
- D minor (vi)
- E minor (vii)
Related Scales and Modes
If you enjoy the sound of F Lydian, you may also like:
- F Lydian Dominant (Lydian with a minor 7th)
- G Mixolydian
- C Major (parent scale)
F Lydian Scale FAQs
How is F Lydian different from F major?
F Lydian has a raised 4th (B) while F major has a perfect 4th (B♭). Otherwise, the two scales are identical.
What is the parent scale of F Lydian?
C major. F Lydian uses the same notes as C major, but starts on its fourth degree (F).
Summary: F Lydian Scale
- Notes: F, G, A, B, C, D, E
- Mode: 4th mode of C major
- Formula: W, W, H, W, W, W, H