E Lydian ♯2

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E Lydian ♯2 Scale

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Step pattern W+H – H – W – H – W – W – H

E Lydian ♯2 contains 7 notes: E, F𝄪, G♯, A♯, B, C♯, D♯. It has 4 sharps: G♯, A♯, C♯, D♯. The step pattern is W+H–H–W–H–W–W–H. It is derived from E Harmonic Minor.

Lydian #2 is a magical, ambiguous mode with a raised 2nd and raised 4th. It sounds otherworldly and slightly dark despite its major quality.

Theory

Built as 1 - #2 - 3 - #4 - 5 - 6 - 7, this is the 6th mode of harmonic minor. The #2 is enharmonically a minor 3rd, giving the scale a structural ambiguity between major and minor. Two augmented 2nd intervals (R to #2, and 3 to #4) create its exotic character. The tonic chord is a maj7 with #9 and #11 extensions.

On the guitar

Play this over the bVI maj7 chord in a minor key to highlight its exotic color. It's rarely used as a key center, making it a specialist tool for brief, shimmering passages. Use harmonic minor shapes rooted on the 6th degree.

Piano