Home Row Scales Part 2: Major to Lydian

This is Part 2 of my Home Row Series.

In this lesson we will change the Major scale to the Lydian mode by raising the 4th scale degree.

First, review the major scale in 4th Position. This is an A Major Scale.

A B C# D E F# G# A

Second, raise the 4th Scale degree, D to a D#. With this one change we create the Lydian Mode.

A B C# D# E F# G# A

Play this “new” scale using the “Three Things Model” and you will be well on your way to understanding and applying this new scale. Improvise over any Major chord with a #4, like Amaj7#11 or use it as a solo guitar strategy as demonstrated in this video.

Download the included handout for practice and study.