GUITAR
HOW THE NASHVILLE NUMBER SYSTEM SAVED MY PLAYING | Chris Rocha
As a guitar player , I ’ ve spent years honing my craft , but it wasn ’ t until I discovered the Nashville Number System ( NNS ) that my playing truly transformed . This revolutionary approach to music notation has become an important part of my thinking and playing , streamlining my process and unlocking new creative possibilities . I felt compelled to write this article about this amazing way of thinking because I want everyone who reads this article to understand how much it can help you on your journey . It can definitely take your playing to the next level .
TRADITIONAL THINKING VS . NASHVILLE NUMBER SYSTEM
Traditionally , musicians rely on standard music notation or chord charts to navigate songs . However , these methods can be limiting , especially when dealing with complex chord progressions or modulations . The NNS , developed by Nashville musicians in the 1950s , replaces traditional chord notation with numbers representing scale degrees . This simple yet powerful system has become indispensable to my playing .
HOW THE NASHVILLE NUMBER SYSTEM WORKS
In the NNS , each chord is represented by a number corresponding to its scale degree within a key . For example , in the key of C :
- I ( 1 ) = C - IV ( 4 ) = F - V ( 5 ) = G
This system allows musicians to easily transpose , modulate , and experiment with chord progressions without getting bogged down in complex notation .
REVOLUTIONIZING MY PLAYING
Once I grasped the NNS , my playing underwent a significant transformation :
Simplified Charting
Gone are the days of scribbling complex chord charts . With the NNS , I can quickly notate songs using numbers , making rehearsals and performances more efficient . I save so much time and chart so much faster . I ’ ve actually been on road trips and charted the songs by ear using the NNS and have been able to pull of rehearsals and concerts this way .
Enhanced Creativity
The NNS frees me to focus on adding my sound and character to the song making it my own , rather than getting bogged down in chord changes . I can explore new ideas and experiment with chord substitutions effortlessly . It allows me to adapt to the song so much faster as well .
Improved Communication
When working with other musicians , the NNS provides a common language , eliminating confusion and ensuring everyone ’ s on the same page . There ’ s been so many times during worship services and concerts where using the NNS kept the whole band glued together in last minute improvised situations . I remember when I first started playing at Lakewood Church in Houston , TX ., I was nervous because of the level of musicianship that surrounded me but as soon as I heard them calling out numbers I felt right at home . I was able to adapt right away with my playing .
Increased Versatility
With the NNS , I can easily adapt to different keys and styles , making me a more versatile player . I no longer get nervous or stressed when the band makes a last-minute key change . My chart stays the same , I just change the key .
CONCLUSION
I wrote this article because switching to the NNS was a total game changer for me and I believe it can do the same to so many other musicians . It has saved me so much time and unlocked new creative possibilities . By embracing this innovative approach , I ’ ve become a more efficient , expressive , and versatile guitarist . Whether you ’ re a seasoned pro or an aspiring musician , I encourage you to explore the NNS and discover how it can transform your playing . The sooner you start to understand it the better . At first , it ’ s going to take a little getting used to but once you get used to it , you ’ re going to be very thankful that you did it . Experience the benefits and creativity it brings and watch your playing soar to new heights !
Chris Rocha Chris Rocha is an American Christian producer , guitarist , business owner and pioneer in the Spanish Christian music industry . He is a two time Dove Award winner , has worked on two Grammy award winning records and has produced or recorded guitars on 5 Grammy nominated albums .
64 November 2024 Subscribe for Free ...