Tip 58: The Lydian Mode

Lydian mode is the same pattern of intervals as Ionian (major scale), but the third and fourth degree intervals are switched–instead of a half step followed by a whole step, it’s a whole then a half.

For example, C Lydian changes the F natural from the major scale to an F#. While still a ‘major’ mode, some notes sound odd because of this change.

This makes Lydian a great mode to use for jazz improvisation in a major key.