Lydian Augmented Scale

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The third mode of the melodic minor scale is known as the lydian augmented scale. It outlines a major seventh sharp five chord, also known as a major seventh augmented chord:

[EXAMPLE]

This scale is thus an appropriate choice for this chord, which might be notated maj7#5, maj#11#5, maj7aug, or maj7+. The lydian augmented scale may also be used over ordinary maj7 chords, even though the raised fourth and fifth degrees are not explicitly called for. This usage is very colorful, although it may also create some tension:

[EXAMPLE]

In general, any scale that contains alterations may be used over unaltered chords as well, although you should be aware of the tension that is created in doing this.

Copyright 2000 Outside Shore Music
Authored by Marc Sabatella

Lydian Augmented Scale