chapter 4: the values and characteristics of accidentals and inection
accidentals and inection
accidental value
b
# b
ACCIDENTALS
musical characteristics
KEY SIGNATURE
The key signature of any piece of music indicates which notes in the score will be flat, natural and sharp every time they occur.
b flat a flat is when the note’s pitch is lowered by 1/2 step.
# sharp a sharp is when the note’s pitch is raised by 1/2 step.
Accidental refers to any instance in the score where the flat, sharp or natural sign appears in front of a note. This indicates that the key signature has been “broken”. Accidentals are valid until the end of the measure, however, if the accidental note repeats in the measure (regardless of octave), the flat, sharp or natural applies to that note as well.
natural when a natural sign appears in the notation, it cancels any flats or sharps in the key signature.
b
Inflection is a musical tool used to infuse the notes and pitches with individual characteristics. Inflection can affect the overall feel of the piece. Inflection can be notated within the musical score. No two musicians can play the exact same sound because of the effects of inflection.
staccato Staccato refers to a pitch that is played crisply and precisely. The sound created resembles the sound of taking a breath between each note played.
legato Legato refers to a group of notes and pitches played very smoothly. These sections of a score are often played in a single breath.
slur
inflection value
#
b
A slur refers to the curved line that connects a group of notes. these notes are intended to be played in a legato style.
musical characteristics
b
accidental value
7 b
C
# b
mf
Accidentals are notated within the abstraction using a different color.
2-dimensional abstraction
When a note is recorded as “accidental” in the notation, that note’s pitch/note line is indicated in the abstraction. Additionally, deviations from the score can be notated using the same system if the artist chooses to do so. This allows the artist the freedom to interpret the musical notation individually.
C
# b
mf Legato and slurred notes can be abstracted through the use of curves. When notes are connected through slurs, a steep curve is created. When individual legato notes occur, a slight curve forms. Staccato notes are indicated through points, as they represent the most precise and momentary form of playing.
b
inection value
b
2-dimensional abstraction
7
accidental value
Accidentals occur in spatial conditions when a portion of the space is untouchable, inaccessible, or otherwise restricted for any reason.
spatial characteristics
These spaces could be existing buildings, deviations from zoning ordinances, historically preserved spaces, geographic or natural limitations, etc.
accidental value
inection value
4
musical characteristics: accidentals and inection