nashville number system for guitar

Understanding the Nashville Number System for Guitar

The Nashville Number System (NNS) is a shorthand method for charting music that uses numbers to represent chords within a key, making it invaluable for guitarists in session work or band settings. It allows musicians to quickly transpose songs to different keys without rewriting the entire chart. This system is widely used by professional musicians, especially in Nashville, due to its flexibility and efficiency.

What is the Nashville Number System?

At its core, the NNS replaces chord names with numbers. Each number corresponds to a scale degree within the key of the song. For example, in the key of G major, the G chord is the 1 chord, C is the 4 chord, and D is the 5 chord. This numeric representation allows a musician to understand the harmonic structure of a song regardless of the key it is played in.

How Does it Work on the Guitar?

To effectively use the NNS on guitar, you must first identify the key of the song. Once the key is established, each number in the NNS chart represents a chord based on its scale degree within that key. For example:

• 1: Tonic chord (root chord of the key)
• 2: Supertonic chord
• 3: Mediant chord
• 4: Subdominant chord
• 5: Dominant chord
• 6: Submediant chord
• 7: Leading tone chord

Knowing your major scale and associated chords is crucial. Guitarists should practice identifying the chords in various keys and relating them to their corresponding numbers. Also, understanding that sharps and flats can be indicated with symbols next to the numbers is a very handy skill. For example, a “b3” would indicate a flat 3rd chord.

Benefits of Using the NNS

The NNS offers several advantages, especially for guitarists:

• Flexibility: Easy transposition of songs to different keys.
• Efficiency: Quick learning of song arrangements on the fly.
• Communication: Standardized language understood by most session musicians.
• Improvisation: Facilitates improvisation as you understand the harmonic progression.

Learning Resources

Numerous resources are available to learn the Nashville Number System. You can refer to Wikipedia’s article on the Nashville Number System for a comprehensive overview. Other online tutorials, books, and courses also exist that can guide you through the system.

Frequently Asked Questions

What if a chord is minor?

Minor chords are often indicated with a “min” or “-” symbol after the number (e.g., 2min or 2-).

How do you write a song in the Nashville Number System?

Write the chord changes using numbers instead of chord names. Include rhythm indications and any other relevant musical cues.

What about complex chords like 7ths or sus chords?

These are typically indicated after the number (e.g., 5/7 for a dominant 7th chord).

Is the Nashville Number System only for country music?

No, it is used in various genres, including pop, rock, and jazz. While it is heavily used in country, its versatility makes it applicable to many styles.

Where can I find Nashville Number System charts?

Many resources online offer NNS charts, and some musicians create their own. Try searching “Nashville Number System charts” to find examples.

Summary

The Nashville Number System is a powerful tool for guitarists to quickly learn, transpose, and communicate music. By understanding the relationship between numbers and chords within a key, guitarists can navigate song arrangements with greater ease and efficiency. Mastering the NNS unlocks a new level of musical understanding and collaboration.