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Could you please add a function that displays the notes contained in the chord while inputting the chord?

For example

C (1,3,5)

Am (6,1,3)

Add a layer that displays chord notes.
thanks!

I see the piano darkening on the mixer to the right. It would be more convenient if you could display the chord notes.


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I am assuming you mean like the chord information that is included in the chord builder window, right?

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Originally Posted by swingbabymix
Could you please add a function that displays the notes contained in the chord while inputting the chord?

For example

C (1,3,5)

Am (6,1,3)

That is weird. Am is commonly spelled by its interval of 1, b3, 5 consistent with the root key - A, not the Key of C. Not sure what the value of this would be.


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Originally Posted by MusicStudent
Originally Posted by swingbabymix
Could you please add a function that displays the notes contained in the chord while inputting the chord?

For example

C (1,3,5)

Am (6,1,3)

That is weird. Am is commonly spelled by its interal of 1, b3, 5 consistent with the root key - A, not the Key of C. Not sure what the value of this would be.

Dan, that is because you know music theory.
My point is that data is already there in the chord builder window.
But I can see the benefit for those whom don't know music theory.
Although I would like to see PGM put more emphasis on more and better backing tracks I will give this a
+1.
But the display MUST be an option. YMMV


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Yes. I want to enter a chord.
There is a layer that shows the notes contained in this chord.
This can be of great help to people who are not familiar with chords.


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Originally Posted by swingbabymix
Yes. I want to enter a chord.
There is a layer that shows the notes contained in this chord.
This can be of great help to people who are not familiar with chords.
I appreciate your interest and enthusiasm, but I wonder are you asking if BiaB is to be a backing band, or a music teaching tool?

Do you propose that it should be an educational system so that you can learn exactly what individual notes that any chord might utilize?

There are probably many separate learning facilities available to learn music theory, and then use that knowledge to create backing music in BiaB.

Despite significant functionality, I have never envisaged that BiaB should fundamentally be expected to teach absolute music basic theory. I think there are a plethora of facilities available to deliver this basic level of music education.

What else have you explored to assist you with learning the note combinations that might make up a specific chord? Did you explore any other music theory? Tell us about your other explorations. What was successful, what was not, and what helped.

Keep being enthused with music. It's a fantastic way to be creative.

Last edited by AudioTrack; 11/02/23 01:49 AM.

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Originally Posted by MarioD
Originally Posted by MusicStudent
Originally Posted by swingbabymix
Could you please add a function that displays the notes contained in the chord while inputting the chord?

For example

C (1,3,5)

Am (6,1,3)

That is weird. Am is commonly spelled by its interal of 1, b3, 5 consistent with the root key - A, not the Key of C. Not sure what the value of this would be.

Dan, that is because you know music theory.
My point is that data is already there in the chord builder window.
But I can see the benefit for those whom don't know music theory.
Although I would like to see PGM put more emphasis on more and better backing tracks I will give this a
+1.
But the display MUST be an option. YMMV

I would not advise buying any music instruction software which describes an Am chord as a (6, 1, 3). The logic to describe these number is nonsense and a disservice to any aspiring musician. mad

Perhaps the OP just chose a bad example for what he is looking for. Otherwise, I am confident that this is not described in this manner anywhere in BIAB. Furthermore, what is shown in the BIAB Chord Builder is approppriate and correct. So lets leave it at that.


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Originally Posted by MusicStudent
Originally Posted by MarioD
Originally Posted by MusicStudent
Originally Posted by swingbabymix
Could you please add a function that displays the notes contained in the chord while inputting the chord?

For example

C (1,3,5)

Am (6,1,3)

That is weird. Am is commonly spelled by its interal of 1, b3, 5 consistent with the root key - A, not the Key of C. Not sure what the value of this would be.

Dan, that is because you know music theory.
My point is that data is already there in the chord builder window.
But I can see the benefit for those whom don't know music theory.
Although I would like to see PGM put more emphasis on more and better backing tracks I will give this a
+1.
But the display MUST be an option. YMMV

I would not advise buying any music instruction software which describes an Am chord as a (6, 1, 3). The logic to describe these number is nonsense and a disservice to any aspiring musician. mad

Perhaps the OP just chose a bad example for what he is looking for. Otherwise, I am confident that this is not described in this manner anywhere in BIAB. Furthermore, what is shown in the BIAB Chord Builder is approppriate and correct. So lets leave it at that.

I agree. I was assuming (I know!) that PGM would use the correct spelling of chords, thus Am would be 1-b3-5. Relative minors are never 6-1-3.


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Originally Posted by MarioD
I agree. I was assuming (I know!) that PGM would use the correct spelling of chords, thus Am would be 1-b3-5. Relative minors are never 6-1-3.
I think I disagree with that, probably because I see a different context.

In the key of C, the Am chord is the minor sixth of C, so 6,1,3 (6m, vi).
I agree entirely that in the relative minor key of Am the chord should be spelled 1,b3, 5 (1m, i).


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Originally Posted by Gordon Scott
Originally Posted by MarioD
I agree. I was assuming (I know!) that PGM would use the correct spelling of chords, thus Am would be 1-b3-5. Relative minors are never 6-1-3.
I think I disagree with that, probably because I see a different context.

In the key of C, the Am chord is the minor sixth of C, so 6,1,3 (6m, vi).
I agree entirely that in the relative minor key of Am the chord should be spelled 1,b3, 5 (1m, i).

I may be wrong but I have never seen an Am chord listed as 6-1-3. I have always seen it as 1-b3-5 regardless of the key signature.
So in the key of C is the F chord labeled as 4-6-1? Are all chords labeled based on the key signature? I was taught that the chords name was based on the tonics note's scale, i.e. Am is based on the A scale, Daug is based on the D scale, etc.

I'm not trying to be a wise guy. I'm just trying to learn. Maybe there is another way to label chords that I don't know about.


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Originally Posted by MarioD
Originally Posted by Gordon Scott
Originally Posted by MarioD
I agree. I was assuming (I know!) that PGM would use the correct spelling of chords, thus Am would be 1-b3-5. Relative minors are never 6-1-3.
I think I disagree with that, probably because I see a different context.

In the key of C, the Am chord is the minor sixth of C, so 6,1,3 (6m, vi).
I agree entirely that in the relative minor key of Am the chord should be spelled 1,b3, 5 (1m, i).

I may be wrong but I have never seen an Am chord listed as 6-1-3. I have always seen it as 1-b3-5 regardless of the key signature.
So in the key of C is the F chord labeled as 4-6-1? Are all chords labeled based on the key signature? I was taught that the chords name was based on the tonics note's scale, i.e. Am is based on the A scale, Daug is based on the D scale, etc.

I'm not trying to be a wise guy. I'm just trying to learn. Maybe there is another way to label chords that I don't know about.

Only in an on-line forum can a chord can be called anything or spelled in any way. In fact any musical concept or relationship can be descibed with any logic or context, no matter how convoluted, as long as someone will post it in a thread. So don't fall for it Mario, this is nonsense out in the real world.


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I can see Gordon's point esp. when taken in context of the way the O/P is thinking about notes.
Lets imagine that the song is in the key of C. The 6th is an A.
Now the user finds a chord listed as A-minor. That user still uses the key signature as the note identifiers. They therefore identify Am as being notes: 6, 1, 3

(BTW: That's not how many/most of us think about chords, probably because we already know the chords and don't have to translate anything into "note numbers" to know how to play them)


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Originally Posted by AudioTrack
I can see Gordon's point esp. when taken in context of the way the O/P is thinking about notes.
Lets imagine that the song is in the key of C. The 6th is an A.
Now the user finds a chord listed as A-minor. That user still uses the key signature as the note identifiers. They therefore identify Am as being notes: 6, 1, 3

(BTW: That's not how many/most of us think about chords, probably because we already know the chords and don't have to translate anything into "note numbers" to know how to play them)

It is in all due respect that I respond to this AudioTrack.

It has been suggested to the O/P that he/she learn some music theory. They have resisted to do so. If they had done so they would have known how to number a minor chord. Instead of encouraging them in incorrect chord labeling lets help them understand that an Am chord is not 6-3-1 but 1-b3-5. All of the correct labeling of chords are in the chord builder window.

In my mind allowing them to say an Am is 6-3-1 is like a color blind person telling me the sky is green. It is preferable to correct them IMHO.

Again this is in all due respect and YMMV.


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Originally Posted by MarioD
I may be wrong but ...
I don't think you're wrong. But I do think this context is different. I certainly didn't mean any offence and I apologise if I appeared rude.

I think what SBM wants to see is the notes in the scale that will be played, not the structure of the chord.

If one thinks of the chord structure, then all minor triads will be (1,b3,5), which doesn't tell him what actual notes will play and I think that's what he wants.
It's probably tricky anyway as we'll often play chords in inversions, and that simplistic numeric indication may not show that, or may confuse if it does show it.
Musically we might also say something like "play a major triad on the third", or play rootless chords, which may be even more confusing.


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OMG, thank you Mario for saying that. You stated the point so much better than I could, or wanted to take the time to. And your timing was perfect, I was about to go off and my blood pressure doesn't need that. I am really surprized by how much this has aggravated me - not like me to get upset. I would like to think I am just passonate about this stuff, but the reality is I am just getting old and don't have time for nonsense!

Gordon, your point is well understood, but I hope you agree, you can't have it both ways, either one learns this properly or they continue to be confused and cause others to be confused.

Respect to all,
Dan


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Originally Posted by Gordon Scott
Originally Posted by MarioD
I may be wrong but ...
.......... I certainly didn't mean any offence and I apologise if I appeared rude.

I............................

No need to apologize my friend. You were not rude nor did I take you message as offensive.
I think the O/P should learn some music theory.


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I'm still learning this stuff and I consulted my personal music theory 3-ring binder (a collection of material I try to keep organized).
Is this table always true?

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Absolutely! Seems pretty simple to look at and becomes very powerful when you fully comprehend it! grin


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Originally Posted by Bass Thumper
I'm still learning this stuff and I consulted my personal music theory 3-ring binder (a collection of material I try to keep organized).
Is this table always true?
Gee, I hope so, or 60+ years of writing music is out the window for me.

I’ve tried to envision how calling Am 6 1 3 in the key of C could possibly be useful, and I just can’t come up with anything. I think I can come up with reasons it would be counter productive. But if someone out here gives a good reason to do this, then as Mario said, it would have to be an option, and not the default setting.


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Originally Posted by MusicStudent
Absolutely! Seems pretty simple to look at and becomes very powerful when you fully comprehend it! grin
Ok, let's drill a little bit deeper to where my knowledge gets thin.
If you agree with this table:
the 1 is A
the b3 is B (because the 3 is C)
and the 5 is E

So 1 - b3 - 5 for the Am chord is A - B - E

But this doesn't look right to me.

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Quote
the 1 is A
the b3 is B (because the 3 is C)
and the 5 is E

So 1 - b3 - 5 for the Am chord is A - B - E
No, but at least this is the right question to ask here. And you are correct something looks wrong..

Start with the A Major Scale - A, B,C#,D,E,F#, G #
For a natural minor chord in this scale, 1=A, b3 = C and 5 = E

It works like this for any Nat Minor Chord in any scale.

Last edited by MusicStudent; 11/04/23 10:14 AM.

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Originally Posted by MusicStudent
Start with the A Major Scale - A, B,C#,D,E,F#, G #
This is where my "wheels fall off" smile
Why would we start with the A major scale when we are trying to decompose an A minor chord??

I'm sure you're right, I'm just not following the logic.


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Originally Posted by Bass Thumper
This is where my "wheels fall off" smile
Why would we start with the A major scale when we are trying to decompose an A minor chord??

I'm sure you're right, I'm just not following the logic.

In western music the Major Scale is KING. So the convention is to always start with the Major scale as the reference to define any alterations to chord intervals.


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Ahhh, ok, I can accept that. It's basically a fundamental rule that was established way back, I'm sure for good reasons.

So, this "start with the major scale rule" applies to decomposing minor chords.
Does it also apply to the other chord types in the table above (dim, sus4, sus2, etc.) ?


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Originally Posted by Bass Thumper
Ahhh, ok, I can accept that. It's basically a fundamental rule that was established way back, I'm sure for good reasons.

So, this "start with the major scale rule" applies to decomposing minor chords.
Does it also apply to the other chord types in the table above (dim, sus4, sus2, etc.) ?

Yes. The major scale in always based on the tonic note of the chord. For instance an Am chord is based on an A major scale, a Bm7b9 is based on the B major scale, a G7sus is based on the G major scale. This is always true regardless of the song's key signature. So if the above chords were played in a song's C key signature they would still be based on the A, B, and G major scales. Understand?

PS - that was a good question to ask.

{edit} Think of it like this, The first letter you see determines the major scale that the chord is based on. I say first because you may see a Gm7/F, or any other slash chord, and the second letter is only for the bass. For instance a C, C/B, C/A, C/G are all based on the C major scale.

Last edited by MarioD; 11/04/23 11:08 AM.

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Hi Mario, I absolutely respectfully respect your response smile

And I absolutely agree with your statement:
Quote
It has been suggested to the O/P that he/she learn some music theory. They have resisted to do so. If they had done so they would have known how to number a minor chord. Instead of encouraging them in incorrect chord labeling lets help them understand that an Am chord is not 6-3-1 but 1-b3-5. All of the correct labeling of chords are in the chord builder window.

I may have sounded like I was justifying the O/P's approach, that was never intended. Their approach is completely wrong. I was only attempting to see it from the lack of music-theory methodology that the O/P apparently continues to use crazy .

Trev


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Originally Posted by MarioD
Yes. The major scale in always based on the tonic note of the chord. For instance an Am chord is based on an A major scale, a Bm7b9 is based on the B major scale, a G7sus is based on the G major scale. This is always true regardless of the song's key signature. So if the above chords were played in a song's C key signature they would still be based on the A, B, and G major scales. Understand?

PS - that was a good question to ask.

{edit} Think of it like this, The first letter you see determines the major scale that the chord is based on. I say first because you may see a Gm7/F, or any other slash chord, and the second letter is only for the bass. For instance a C, C/B, C/A, C/G are all based on the C major scale.
I think I'm getting this. No matter what type of chord we are talking about, to decompse it to its individual notes you use it's major scale with the table I posted above that specifies its "formula"; 1 - 3 - 5 or 1 - b3 - 5 or 1 - 2 - 5 or whatever it might be.

And you read my mind regarding the key of the song which was my next question. You still use the applicable major scale no matter what the key of the song is. So if an Am chord is in a song in the key of Am:
1=A, b3=C and 5=E.

And if the song is in the key of Bb (or any other key) an Am chord would still decompose to
1=A, b3=C and 5=E

And regarding the bass (or slash note), that is not a chord but a note, and a bass player would simply play that as-is.

Is all this right?


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Originally Posted by Bass Thumper
the b3 is B (because the 3 is C)
No the b3 is the C .. the 3 is C#, so Am is A,C,E.

(Typo corrected ... thanks Mario).

Last edited by Gordon Scott; 11/04/23 03:36 PM. Reason: typo corrected.

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YES!


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Originally Posted by Gordon Scott
Originally Posted by Bass Thumper
the b3 is B (because the 3 is C)
No the b3 is the C .. the 3 is C#, so Cm is A,C,E.

Gordon, you have a typo. Cm is C-Eb-G. Am is A-C-E.


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Typos are always allowed when we discuss the spelling of Chords and scales! grin


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I love to "beat a dead horse"; it's how I apply new found knowledge.
Anyone care to spot check my "homework"?

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Originally Posted by Bass Thumper
I love to "beat a dead horse"; it's how I apply new found knowledge.
Anyone care to spot check my "homework"?

Your chart is the same as my references.
Here is the algorithm - All Chords are Stacked thirds from the scale

A Major chord is a Maj 3rd interval followed by a Minor 3rd interval.
A minor chord is a Minor 3rd interval followed by a Major 3rd interval.

For example:
For a C Major chord, , select the root and go up a major 3rd (two full steps) to a E, then continue up a minor 3rd (one and a half steps) to a G and you get the C Major triad (C – E -G)
For a Cm chord, select the root and go up a minor 3rd (one and a half steps) to a Eb, then continue up a major 3rd (two full steps) to a G and you get the Cm triad (C – Eb -G)
This works for every Major or Minor chord in any Key!

If this now makes sense, congradulations you have just passed beginning Music Theory - 100. If you want to pass Music Theory 101, then you need to fully understand the next chart which combines the triads you have just learned with the harmonized scales for each individual key: grin Oh, and by the way, if there are any typos above, these can always be corrected.

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Originally Posted by MusicStudent
Your chart is the same as my references.
Here is the algorithm - All Chords are Stacked thirds from the scale
Dan: thanks for sharing your chart; it has a lot more info than mine and I'll add it to my reference binder and grow into it as the needs arise. I went down the list and our charts do agree except for some enharmonic differences. I notice your chart contains E# and B# I'm sure for good reasons I don't yet understand but that's ok. My main usage for this is to help build better bass arpeggios. A distant 2nd usage is to work out how to play minor chords on my Korg.

Mario: thanks to you too. You explain things well. A "meta-lesson" for me here is to always hitch my wagon to the established lexicon of music theory. I will never understand it all but it is incredibly well thought out and has probably been refined over the centuries to where it is today. Even though I'm "nearly blind" thanks for not telling me the sky is green wink

swingbabymix: I apologize if I hi-jacked your thread but you appeared to have disengaged at the start of this discussion and I saw an opportunity to plug a hole in my theory knowledge. Hopefully you learned something here, I know I did.


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I think I have something of a mea culpa here ... I missed Mario's post about the chord-builder dialog and understood SMB's suggestion to mean something else. I agree entirely that the 6,1,3 numbering would be completely wrong in the chord-builder. I related his post here to an earlier one with piano keyboards in the mixer with notes highlighted and I imagined that he wanted those notes numbered when he entered/previewed a chord in the main chord entry view.

So sorry guys, I think I confused things somewhat.


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Yes. I understand everything you said.
Am (1, b3, 5)
When I input, I only considered this form of functional display.
So, a better way is to use English letters to display intra chord notes.
For example, when I input a C, there is a layer that displays (C, E, G)
When I input Am, the upper layer of the chord displays (A, C, E)
When inputting a chord, the upper layer displays chord notes, which is very friendly and will help more beginners learn. I don't know if this feature is very difficult to implement. I found that the piano in the MIXER on the right actually displays the keys, but no characters are used to display them.


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Originally Posted by Bass Thumper
Originally Posted by MusicStudent
Your chart is the same as my references.
Here is the algorithm - All Chords are Stacked thirds from the scale
Dan: thanks for sharing your chart; it has a lot more info than mine and I'll add it to my reference binder and grow into it as the needs arise. I went down the list and our charts do agree except for some enharmonic differences. I notice your chart contains E# and B# I'm sure for good reasons I don't yet understand but that's ok. My main usage for this is to help build better bass arpeggios. A distant 2nd usage is to work out how to play minor chords on my Korg.

......................................

Steve, the reason there are E# and B# is because the chord note names must be based on the scale. For instance A#m is A#-C#-E#. The notes in the A# major scale are A# - B# - C## - D# - E# - F## - G## thus E# is the fifth note of the scale. Note the C,F,and G double sharps. The b3 is C#, one half step down from C##.

The same for the G# chord, G#-B#-D#. The notes in the G# scale are G#-A#-B#-C#-D#-E#-F##-G# so the G# major chord, 1-3-5, is G#-B#-D#.
Same for the double sharps here.

Do not panic as you will rarely see key signatures like this these.


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swingbabymix: I apologize if I hi-jacked your thread but you appeared to have disengaged at the start of this discussion and I saw an opportunity to plug a hole in my theory knowledge. Hopefully you learned something here, I know I did.


I also learned knowledge.

If I think about the minor key as if the major is king.
So one of the nice things that you'll find is that major chord progressions can be applied to minor keys.
C is 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7
Cm is 1, 2, 3b, 4, 5, 6b, 7b

At the same time, a lot of us here like to say C=Am, and then say the minor key is 6, 7, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, which helps you understand at first, but it gets confusing at the end. That's what I've learned here.

So I'm a big believer in using 1, 2, 3b, 4, 5, 6b, 7b to think about minor keys.


Finally, you want to add a layer to show the inside notes of the chord. Use English display.

Enter in the key of C major

C-E-G
C

A-C-E
Am

G-F-A-C
F/G

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Last edited by swingbabymix; 11/04/23 07:20 PM.

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Originally Posted by swingbabymix
So I'm a big believer in using 1, 2, 3b, 4, 5, 6b, 7b to think about minor keys.
There's a small complication here, because there are three different minor scales. The one you're using here is the Natural Minor, which is the scale that uses the same notes as a major scale three half-step above it, so Am has the same notes as C.

I think that it is good to be aware of that, but not yet to worry too much about it. (Wikipedia has a page here).


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Originally Posted by Gordon Scott
There's a small complication here, because there are three different minor scales. The one you're using here is the Natural Minor, which is the scale that uses the same notes as a major scale three half-step above it, so Am has the same notes as C.

I think that it is good to be aware of that, but not yet to worry too much about it. (Wikipedia has a page here).
Yes, I'm only vaguely aware that other minor scales exist. I'm assuming that when folks say "Am" or "A minor" that what is implied is the natural minor scale. And that [at least for now] I won't need to deal with the others.


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If I think about the minor key as if the major is king.
So one of the nice things that you'll find is that major chord progressions can be applied to minor keys.
C is 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7
Cm is 1, 2, 3b, 4, 5, 6b, 7b

Yes, may I suggest a small adjustment to emphasis that this formular works for every Key and every scale:
Major is 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7
Minor is 1, 2, 3b, 4, 5, 6b, 7b

Including:
Melodic Minor is 1, 2, b3, 4, 5, 6, 7
Harmonic Minor is 1, 2, b3, 4, 5, b6, 7

Seems like we are speaking a common language now. grin

Last edited by MusicStudent; 11/05/23 07:51 AM.

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Originally Posted by MusicStudent
Seems like we are speaking a common language now. grin


The major is king, very good.
In SCALER, the same applies.
When I understand the meaning, I will find everything so beautiful.


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Sorry, I could not resist. But, if this stuff is new to anyone, then this next list may bring the lesson home even stronger. Keep in mind, Scales and Chords are the same! So this applies to everything. Appreciating this will complete your graduation from Music Theory 101.

Ionian Scale (major) Formula: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7
Dorian Scale Formula: 1, 2, ♭3, 4, 5, 6, ♭7
Phrygian Scale Formula: 1, ♭2, ♭3, 4, 5, ♭6, ♭7
Lydian Scale Formula: 1, 2, 3, #4, 5, 6, 7
Mixolydian Scale Formula: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, ♭7
Aeolian Scale (minor) Formula: 1, 2, ♭3, 4, 5, ♭6, ♭7
Locrian Scale Formula: 1, ♭2, ♭3, 4, ♭5, ♭6, ♭7


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Originally Posted by MusicStudent
Ionian Scale (major) Formula: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7
Dorian Scale Formula: 1, 2, ♭3, 4, 5, 6, ♭7
Phrygian Scale Formula: 1, ♭2, ♭3, 4, 5, ♭6, ♭7
Lydian Scale Formula: 1, 2, 3, #4, 5, 6, 7
Mixolydian Scale Formula: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, ♭7
Aeolian Scale (minor) Formula: 1, 2, ♭3, 4, 5, ♭6, ♭7
Locrian Scale Formula: 1, ♭2, ♭3, 4, ♭5, ♭6, ♭7
These are known as "modes" or sometimes "church modes" and they are different ways to play the same notes. Wikipedia has a page here.

There's an explanation/demonstration I like, in English/American, here, but you may be able to find a version in your own language.


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Originally Posted by MusicStudent
Sorry, I could not resist. But, if this stuff is new to anyone, then this next list may bring the lesson home even stronger. Keep in mind, Scales and Chords are the same! So this applies to everything. Appreciating this will complete your graduation from Music Theory 101.

Ionian Scale (major) Formula: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7
Dorian Scale Formula: 1, 2, ♭3, 4, 5, 6, ♭7
Phrygian Scale Formula: 1, ♭2, ♭3, 4, 5, ♭6, ♭7
Lydian Scale Formula: 1, 2, 3, #4, 5, 6, 7
Mixolydian Scale Formula: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, ♭7
Aeolian Scale (minor) Formula: 1, 2, ♭3, 4, 5, ♭6, ♭7
Locrian Scale Formula: 1, ♭2, ♭3, 4, ♭5, ♭6, ♭7

This is good information but I hope it doesn't confuse people. Throwing modes at some whom are having a hard time with a relative minor can be very confusing IMHO.


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Originally Posted by MusicStudent
Sorry, I could not resist. But, if this stuff is new to anyone, then this next list may bring the lesson home even stronger. Keep in mind, Scales and Chords are the same! So this applies to everything. Appreciating this will complete your graduation from Music Theory 101.

Ionian Scale (major) Formula: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7
Dorian Scale Formula: 1, 2, ♭3, 4, 5, 6, ♭7
Phrygian Scale Formula: 1, ♭2, ♭3, 4, 5, ♭6, ♭7
Lydian Scale Formula: 1, 2, 3, #4, 5, 6, 7
Mixolydian Scale Formula: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, ♭7
Aeolian Scale (minor) Formula: 1, 2, ♭3, 4, 5, ♭6, ♭7
Locrian Scale Formula: 1, ♭2, ♭3, 4, ♭5, ♭6, ♭7

Thanks Dan,
I've seen some of these terms before but never knew what they meant.


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Originally Posted by MarioD
This is good information but I hope it doesn't confuse people. Throwing modes at some whom are having a hard time with a relative minor can be very confusing IMHO.

Understood Mario, obviouly not my intention. I consider the modes simply different scales. Just as I consider the major and minor just different scales. I thought this would tie together with our discussion of triads and chords. But this may be an overly simplistic approach. Thanks for comment. I will consider changing the order of elements in our Music 101 course curriculum going forward grin


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Originally Posted by Gordon Scott
These are known as "modes" or sometimes "church modes" and they are different ways to play the same notes. Wikipedia has a page here.

There's an explanation/demonstration I like, in English/American, here, but you may be able to find a version in your own language.

Thanks Gordon, Great video, I know this guy well. And yes you are right, fundamentally "different ways to play the same notes". My point is All scales are variation of the Major Scale. The Ionian (Major) scale is based on intervals of W,W,H,W,W,W,H while the other modes are every other combination of intervals. That consideration is addressed in my Music Theory 102. grin Or maybe I need to change things up as Mario suggested. grin

Last edited by MusicStudent; 11/05/23 01:01 PM.

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RapidComposer is more that way:
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Band-in-a-Box can do this.

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Originally Posted by Jim Fogle
Band-in-a-Box can do this.


Yes, I know that PIANO on the right can be displayed.
What I mean is, since PIANO can display chords, can it also display text. Because this can save time. I need to carefully observe the color changes of PIANO now in order to find the keys.


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Originally Posted by swingbabymix
Originally Posted by Jim Fogle
Band-in-a-Box can do this.


Yes, I know that PIANO on the right can be displayed.
What I mean is, since PIANO can display chords, can it also display text. Because this can save time. I need to carefully observe the color changes of PIANO now in order to find the keys.
I think an issue here would if one were to put the text at the piano images would be in getting the text to fit. It's OK with 1,3,5, but not so easy with b5, Maj7, bb7, #11, #13. One would need a larger box for the text, so would have to choose the track for which they would be displayed. The piano keyboard shows the actual notes played, independently of any enharmonic spelling, so it very effective, provided one can fully understand the notes shown. Another factor is how to decide whether to show 2 or 9, 4 or 11, 6 or 13. Not to mention how to display different voicings.

I think it would be useful, but I also think it would be fairly complex to achieve something apparently simple and personally I'm not sure it would add much value. Others may disagree with me.


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midiChordAnalyzer32-64.zip

Create a midi Chord track and put this on it.

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Originally Posted by musocity
midiChordAnalyzer32-64.zip

Create a midi Chord track and put this on it.

You are a genius.

However, I still like that BIAB can do it itself.


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BIAB can't do everything frown you should learn Reaper then you can make scripts to do anything you like.

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This might work,

Navigate to Window > Big Piano Window or press Ctrl+Shift+N to open the Big Piano Window.

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Ctrl+Shift+N or Window > Big Piano Window

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Originally Posted by Jim Fogle
Big Piano Window or press Ctrl+Shift+N to open the Big Piano Window.


I have already tuned out the grand piano.
Then I press "enter shift" on a chord to play it. However, the grand piano does not display chords. I can only flicker when playing the entire chord, right?


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Originally Posted by swingbabymix
Originally Posted by Jim Fogle
Big Piano Window or press Ctrl+Shift+N to open the Big Piano Window.

I have already tuned out the grand piano.
Hmm, right ... I've mentioned how the translators can change the meaning of things.

This is a really good example of that. The translator has decided that "big piano" translates to "grand piano", however that is, of course, something completely different. "tuned out" is likely also a mis-translation.
Captioning went awry. left is Big Piano, right is Grand Piano.

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Last edited by Gordon Scott; 12/05/23 03:27 AM.

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The enhanced Mixer now shows Track Type and Instrument icons for instant track recognition, while a new grid option simplifies editing views. Non-floating windows adopt a modern title bar style, replacing the legacy blue bar.

The Master Volume is now applied at the end of the audio chain for consistent levels and full-signal master effects.

Tablature now includes a “Save bends when saving XML” option for improved compatibility with PG Music tools. Plus, you can instantly match all track heights with a simple Ctrl-release after resizing, and Add2 chords from MGU/SGU files are now fully supported... and more!

Get started today—first-time packages start at just $49.

Already using PowerTracks Pro Audio? Upgrade for as little as $29 and enjoy the latest improvements!

Order now!

Band-in-a-Box 2026 for Windows Special Offers End Tomorrow (January 15th, 2026) at 11:59 PM PST!

Time really is running out! Save up to 50% on Band-in-a-Box® 2026 for Windows® upgrades and receive a FREE Bonus PAK—only when you order by 11:59 PM PST on Thursday, January 15, 2026!

We've added many major new features and new content in a redesigned Band-in-a-Box® 2026 for Windows®!

Version 2026 introduces a modernized GUI redesign across the program, with updated toolbars, refreshed windows, smoother workflows, and a new Dark Mode option. There’s also a new side toolbar for quicker access to commonly used windows, and the new Multi-View feature lets you arrange multiple windows as layered panels without overlap, making it easier to customize your workspace.

Another exciting new addition is the new AI-Notes feature, which can transcribe polyphonic audio into MIDI. You can view the results in notation or play them back as MIDI, and choose whether to process an entire track or focus on specific parts like drums, bass, guitars/piano, or vocals. There's over 100 new features in Band-in-a-Box® 2026 for Windows®.

There's an amazing collection of new content too, including 202 RealTracks, new RealStyles, MIDI SuperTracks, Instrumental Studies, “Songs with Vocals” Artist Performance Sets, Playable RealTracks Set 5, two RealDrums Stems sets, XPro Styles PAK 10, Xtra Styles PAK 21, and much more!

Upgrade your Band-in-a-Box for Windows to save up to 50% on most Band-in-a-Box® 2026 upgrade packages!

Plus, when you order your Band-in-a-Box® 2026 upgrade during our special, you'll receive a Free Bonus PAK of exciting new add-ons.

If you need any help deciding which package is the best option for you, just let us know. We are here to help!

Band-in-a-Box® 2026 for Windows® Special Offers Extended Until January 15, 2026!

Good news! You still have time to upgrade to the latest version of Band-in-a-Box® for Windows® and save. Our Band-in-a-Box® 2026 for Windows® special now runs through January 15, 2025!

We've packed Band-in-a-Box® 2026 with major new features, enhancements, and an incredible lineup of new content! The program now sports a sleek, modern GUI redesign across the entire interface, including updated toolbars, refreshed windows, smoother workflows, a new dark mode option, and more. The brand-new side toolbar provides quicker access to key windows, while the new Multi-View feature lets you arrange multiple windows as layered panels without overlap, creating a flexible, clutter-free workspace. We have an amazing new “AI-Notes” feature. This transcribes polyphonic audio into MIDI so you can view it in notation or play it back as MIDI. You can process an entire track (all pitched instruments and drums) or focus on individual parts like drums, bass, guitars/piano, or vocals. There's an amazing collection of new content too, including 202 RealTracks, new RealStyles, MIDI SuperTracks, Instrumental Studies, “Songs with Vocals” Artist Performance Sets, Playable RealTracks Set 5, two RealDrums Stems sets, XPro Styles PAK 10, Xtra Styles PAK 21, and much more!

There are over 100 new features in Band-in-a-Box® 2026 for Windows®.

When you order purchase Band-in-a-Box® 2026 before 11:59 PM PST on January 15th, you'll also receive a Free Bonus PAK packed with exciting new add-ons.

Upgrade to Band-in-a-Box® 2026 for Windows® today! Check out the Band-in-a-Box® packages page for all the purchase options available.

Happy New Year!

Thank you for being part of the Band-in-a-Box® community.

Wishing you and yours a very happy 2026—Happy New Year from all of us at PG Music!

Season's Greetings!

Wishing everyone a happy, healthy holiday season—thanks for being part of our community!

The office will be closed for Christmas Day, but we will be back on Boxing Day (Dec 26th) at 6:00am PST.

Team PG

Band-in-a-Box 2026 Video: The Newly Designed Piano Roll Window

In this video, we explore the updated Piano Roll, complete with a modernized look and exciting new features. You’ll see new filtering options that make it easy to focus on specific note groups, smoother and more intuitive note entry and editing, and enhanced options for zooming, looping, and more.

Watch the video.

You can see all the 2026 videos on our forum!

Band-in-a-Box 2026 Video: AI Stems & Notes - split polyphonic audio into instruments and transcribe

This video demonstrates how to use the new AI-Notes feature together with the AI-Stems splitter, allowing you to select an audio file and have it separated into individual stems while transcribing each one to its own MIDI track. AI-Notes converts polyphonic audio—either full mixes or individual instruments—into MIDI that you can view in notation or play back instantly.

Watch the video.

You can see all the 2026 videos on our forum!

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