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Noteheads shaped as triangles, ovals, squares and diamonds.
Also known as: Sacred Harp notation, Fasola notation, Buckwheat notes, Triangle and diamond noteheads
Shape notes give each scale degree a distinct notehead shape, so a singer reads the interval from the shape rather than counting lines. It was designed for teaching sight-singing without formal training, and it works: the four-shape system needs only four shapes for seven degrees.
Denotes a notation in which each scale degree is given a distinctive notehead shape, read alongside its position on the staff.
Contexts: Music
Was devised to teach sight-singing without formal musical training, the shape supplying the interval information that staff position alone requires training to read.
Contexts: Music
Exists in four-shape and seven-shape systems, the four-shape form reusing shapes across the scale because it derives from a four-syllable solmisation.
Contexts: Music
Remains in continuous use in Sacred Harp singing in the United States.
Contexts: Music
Noteheads on a conventional staff drawn as triangles, ovals, squares and diamonds instead of uniform ovals.