Arts >> Music >> Musical Instruments

What is a musical notation using numbers to indicate chords intervals and other aspects in relation the bass note of music?

The musical notation you're referring to is called Nashville Number System (NNS) or Nashville notation. It's a system of musical notation used primarily in country music, gospel music, and some other genres. Here are the key elements of Nashville notation:

1. Chord Symbols: In Nashville notation, chords are represented by numbers that correspond to the scale degrees of the root note. For example, the chord built on the first scale degree is "1" (the root chord), the chord on the second scale degree is "2", the chord on the third scale degree is "3", and so on.

2. Intervals: Intervals between notes are indicated by numbers followed by a letter. For example, "3M" means a major third interval, "2m" means a minor second interval, "4A" means an augmented fourth interval, etc.

3. Inversions: Chord inversions are indicated by a slash (/) followed by the number of the note in the bass. For example, "G/B" indicates a G chord with a B in the bass (first inversion), "C/E" indicates a C chord with an E in the bass (second inversion), and so on.

4. Bass Note: The bass note of a chord is often indicated by a number in parentheses. For example, "G(3)" means a G chord with the third scale degree in the bass.

5. Accidentals: Accidentals (sharps, flats, and naturals) are indicated using the symbols "#", "b", and "n", respectively. For example, "A#m" indicates an A sharp minor chord, "Dbm" indicates a D flat minor chord, and "Cn" indicates a C natural chord.

Nashville notation is widely used by musicians in Nashville, Tennessee, and beyond, and it helps musicians quickly communicate and understand chord progressions, intervals, and other musical elements. It's a concise and efficient way to notate music, especially in genres where improvisation and quick decision-making are essential.

Musical Instruments

Related Categories