– The chord symbol does not automatically specify the chord’s inversion, as figured bass numerals do. – The superscript provides additional info - in this case that cute little “7” means that it’s a seventh chord. – A capital letter by itself means the chord is major: the majorness is implied. – The foundation of the symbol is a letter of the musical alphabet, A-G: this is the root of the chord: the defining note that gives the chord its name. Study the example and notice the following:

Let’s start with a quick anatomy lesson: what are the basic parts of a chord symbol? Independent from staff notation but also an important extension of it, chord symbols are a precise shorthand and guide to performance and improvisation.

Usually placed above the staff or a set of lyrics, chord symbols are an entire musical language unto themselves. This Behind the Notation series focuses on a topic close to the hearts of anyone who likes chords (and that’s everyone, right?).

Behind the Notation: Chord Symbols Robin McClellan | March 3, 2017

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