Lydian mode

noun

, Music.

1. an authentic church mode represented on the white keys of a keyboard instrument by an ascending scale from F to F.

Word History and Origins

Origin of Lydian mode¹

First recorded in 1800–10

Example Sentences

This is an example of Lydian mode in the “Simpson’s Theme Song” by Danny Elfman.

From Literature

Therefore the fourth degree of the Lydian mode is raised one half step.

From Literature

Looking at Figure 6.10, you can see that the Lydian mode starts on an F. The key of F major would have a B flat, but in the mode this is raised one half step, to B natural.

From Literature

We began with Beethoven, who employed the Lydian mode in his Opus 132 for out-of-body illusions.

From Los Angeles Times

Titled “Holy Song of Thanksgiving of a Convalescent to the Deity, in the Lydian Mode,” it was written after Beethoven recovered from a serious intestinal illness, just two years before his death.

From New York Times