The Nashville Number System
Session musicians write chords as numbers, not letters, so a chart works in any key without a single rewrite. Switch keys below and watch the numbers hold still while the letters move.
Numbers instead of letters
Just like Roman numeral analysis, the Nashville Number System names each chord by its scale degree (1–7) rather than its letter. The difference is practical: it's built for fast, live reading on a gig, with simple digits instead of Roman numerals and case rules.
Reading the extra symbols
| Symbol | Meaning |
|---|---|
| 6 or 6m | Minor chord on scale degree 6 |
| 4Δ or 4maj7 | Major 7th chord on scale degree 4 |
| 5 7 | Dominant 7th chord on scale degree 5 |
| 1/3 | Chord 1 with scale degree 3 in the bass (a slash chord) |
| ◇ over a number | A "diamond" — let the chord ring, don't restrike it |
Common questions
What is the Nashville Number System?
Writing chord progressions using each chord's scale-degree number instead of its letter name, so a chart works in any key.
How is it different from Roman numeral analysis?
Same concept, but Nashville numbers are a fast practical live-performance shorthand, while Roman numerals are used for written theory analysis.
How do you show minor chords in the Nashville system?
With a minus sign or "m" after the number — 6- or 6m both mean the minor chord on scale degree 6.
Why do session musicians prefer numbers?
A key change on the spot needs no rewritten chart — everyone just transposes the same numbers.
Transpose instantly, every time
Melody Monkey shows any progression in any key on the fly — free to try.
Open the progression builder →Still stuck? Ask Your Personal Music Teacher about The Nashville Number System →