4.3 Chord Symbol Notation

Chord symbols are a shorthand way to convey harmony in music. They're like a secret code that tells musicians what chords to play without writing out every note. This makes it easier to read and play songs quickly.

In this part of the chapter, we'll learn how to read and write chord symbols. We'll cover basic triads, seventh chords, and more complex chords. Understanding these symbols is key to playing and analyzing music effectively.

Chord Symbols in Music Notation

Chord Symbol Components

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• Chord symbols consist of a root note that specifies the fundamental pitch upon which the chord is built (C, F#)
• Additional symbols or extensions indicate the quality and type of chord to be played (m for minor, Δ for major)
• Common chord qualities include major (no symbol or Δ), minor (m or -), diminished (dim or °), and augmented (aug or +)
• Chord extensions, such as 7, 9, 11, and 13, indicate the inclusion of additional notes beyond the basic triad (Cmaj7, Dm9)

Specialized Chord Symbols

• Slash chords indicate a chord with a different bass note than the root (C/G, F/A)
  • The note after the slash specifies the bass note to be played
• Suspended chords replace the third with either the second or fourth scale degree (Csus2, Gsus4)
  • sus2 replaces the third with the second scale degree
  • sus4 replaces the third with the fourth scale degree
• Altered chord tones can be indicated using symbols such as b (flat) or # (sharp) before the altered scale degree (C7b9, F#m6)

Writing Chord Symbols

Triads and Seventh Chords

• Triads are three-note chords built on the root, third, and fifth scale degrees (C, Em, G#dim)
  • The four basic triad qualities are major, minor, diminished, and augmented
• Seventh chords are four-note chords that add a seventh scale degree to a triad (Cmaj7, Bm7b5)
  • Common seventh chord qualities include major seventh (Δ7 or maj7), dominant seventh (7), minor seventh (m7 or -7), half-diminished seventh (ø7 or m7b5), and diminished seventh (dim7 or °7)

Constructing Chord Symbols

• To write a chord symbol, start with the root note and add the appropriate symbol or extension to indicate the chord quality and type (Am7, Dbmaj7, E7sus4)
  • Use uppercase letters for the root note (C, F#)
  • Add the chord quality symbol or extension immediately after the root note (Gm, Bbdim7)
• Ensure the chord symbol accurately represents the intended harmony
  • Double-check the root note, quality, and any extensions or alterations
  • Consider the context and function of the chord within the progression

Chord Symbols vs Notes

Relationship between Symbols and Notes

• Chord symbols provide a concise way to represent the harmonic structure, while the actual notes played may vary based on factors such as voicing, inversion, and instrumental arrangement
  • The same chord symbol can be played using different voicings or inversions (C major triad: C-E-G, E-G-C, or G-C-E)
• The root note of a chord symbol indicates the fundamental pitch, while the quality and extensions determine the specific notes included (Am7: A, C, E, G)

Analyzing Chord Symbols

• Analyzing the relationship between chord symbols and their corresponding notes involves identifying the scale degrees and intervals that make up each chord type
  • A major triad consists of the root, major third, and perfect fifth (C major: C, E, G)
  • A minor seventh chord includes the root, minor third, perfect fifth, and minor seventh (Dm7: D, F, A, C)
• Understanding the relationship between chord symbols and notes enables musicians to create appropriate voicings and substitutions based on the harmonic context and desired musical effect
  • Knowing the notes in a chord allows for smooth voice leading and effective chord transitions
  • Recognizing the chord tones helps in improvising melodic lines that outline the harmony

Lead Sheet Notation

Creating Lead Sheets

• A lead sheet is a simplified score that includes the melody, lyrics (if applicable), and chord symbols of a song, serving as a blueprint for performance or arrangement
• When creating a lead sheet, place the chord symbols above the melody line, aligned with the beats or measures where the chords change
  • Ensure the chord symbols are clearly legible and spaced appropriately
• Use standard chord symbol notation and placement conventions to ensure clarity and readability for performers
  • Follow common practices for indicating chord qualities, extensions, and alterations
  • Align the chord symbols consistently with the rhythmic structure of the melody

Lead Sheet Components

• Include essential information such as the song title, key signature, time signature, tempo, and form (intro, verse, chorus, bridge)
  • Clearly label each section of the song (Verse 1, Chorus, Bridge)
  • Provide any necessary instructions for repeats, endings, or other performance directions
• Provide clear and concise chord symbols that accurately represent the harmonic structure of the song
  • Account for key changes, modulations, and non-diatonic chords
  • Use parentheses for optional extensions or alterations (C(maj7), F(#11))
• Consider the intended audience and purpose of the lead sheet, adapting the level of detail and complexity accordingly
  • Simplify chords for beginner musicians or provide more advanced extensions for experienced players
  • Include specific voicings or rhythmic patterns if essential to the song's style or arrangement