Scales reference
Lydian Mode
Lydian is the fourth mode of the major scale. It has major quality and a raised fourth degree that distinguishes it from Ionian.
Developing reference
Overview
Lydian shares Ionian's major third, perfect fifth, major sixth, and major seventh. Its raised fourth removes the perfect fourth above the tonic and supplies the mode's defining contrast.
Construction
Lydian begins on the fourth degree of its relative parent major scale. In parallel comparison, it can be understood as a major scale with a raised fourth.
Characteristics
The raised fourth creates a whole tone between the third and fourth degrees and forms a tritone with the tonic. When that degree is treated as colour rather than an accidental passing tone, the mode's major-centred identity becomes clearer.
Applications
Lydian supports major modal harmony, sustained tonic sonorities, melodies that feature the raised fourth, and comparison with the more strongly tonal pull of Ionian.