E♭ Lydian scale
The E♭ Lydian scale is a 7-note lydian scale built on the root E♭. Its notes are E♭, F, G, A, B♭, C and D. Brighter than major thanks to its raised fourth — dreamy and cinematic. This page covers the formula, fingerings, diatonic chords and common progressions that make E♭ Lydian a powerful tool for improvising and composing.
Lydian is the dreamy mode beloved by film composers, fusion guitarists and progressive rock. The sharp fourth makes simple ideas sound futuristic. Built on the root E♭, the scale takes on the specific colour and pitch range of that key — making it especially useful in genres and registers where E♭ is a comfortable tonal centre.
Formula & step pattern
The E♭ Lydian scale follows a major scale with a raised fourth degree (W-W-W-H-W-W-H). Step pattern: W - W - W - H - W - W - H. Intervals from the root: 1P · 2M · 3M · 4A · 5P · 6M · 7M. Memorising the formula lets you transpose the scale to any other root note quickly.
E♭ Lydian on the piano
E♭ Lydian on the guitar
E♭ Lydian on the staff
Hear the E♭ Lydian scale
Notes of the E♭ Lydian scale
| Degree | Interval | Semitones | Note |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 1P | 0 | E♭(Eb) |
| 2 | 2M | 2 | F |
| 3 | 3M | 4 | G |
| 4 | 4A | 6 | A |
| 5 | 5P | 7 | B♭(Bb) |
| 6 | 6M | 9 | C |
| 7 | 7M | 11 | D |
Diatonic chords of E♭ Lydian
These are the chords that naturally form on each degree of the scale. Click a chord to open its dedicated page.
How to use the E♭ Lydian scale
The diatonic chords of E♭ Lydian are: I = E♭, II = F, iii = Gm, iv° = A°, V = B♭, vi = Cm, vii = Dm. These seven chords belong naturally to the key and are the safest harmonic vocabulary when writing songs in E♭ Lydian. Click any chord below to open its full diagram and progressions.
Lydian is the dreamy mode beloved by film composers, fusion guitarists and progressive rock. The sharp fourth makes simple ideas sound futuristic.
Practice tips
Target the raised fourth for the unmistakeable lydian colour. Try arpeggiating the I and II chords to highlight the brightness.
Famous songs in this key
E♭ Lydian appears throughout lydian is the dreamy mode beloved by film composers, fusion guitarists and progressive rock. the sharp fourth makes simple ideas sound futuristic. Listening to music in this scale and transcribing short phrases is the fastest way to absorb its sound.
Scales related to E♭ Lydian
Once you are comfortable with E♭ Lydian, explore related scales to expand your vocabulary. The scales below share notes, modes or tonal centres with E♭ Lydian and are a natural next step in your study.
Frequently asked questions
What notes are in the E♭ Lydian scale?
What is the formula for the E♭ Lydian scale?
Is E♭ Lydian a major or minor scale?
What chords belong to the E♭ Lydian scale?
Which genres use E♭ Lydian?
How do I practise the E♭ Lydian scale?
Take E♭ Lydian into your music
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