How can we overcome the problems of traditional notation?
The criteria for developing a new notation system is as follows: It should overcome all the problems of traditional pitch notation; it mustn't involve too many new symbols, require coloured pens, special implements, and so forth; it should be easy to inscribe (jot down); it should be clear and easy to read; it should not differ too much from traditional notation; and it should not take up too much vertical space.
Bilinear music notation remains the only truly viable alternative notation system.
What is Bilinear Music Notation?
Bilinear music notation is a chromatic system, based on a staff of two prefabricated lines per octave, with no clefs, no key signatures, no accidentals, and where each note has its own unchangeable position, but where the recurrence of each note is the same in every octave:
A comparison between bilinear music notation and traditional notation is shown below:
The bilinear music method also offers a new system of pitch symbols (based on staff symbols), new simple register symbols to replace clefs, and can be used with proportionate (chronographic) rhythmic notation -a graphical alternative to traditional rhythmic notation.
Why is it called 'Bilinear' music notation?
Bilinear music notation is made up of two whole-tone rows represented by two sets of note-heads.
Bilinear: Linear with respect to each of two variables or positions.
Comparitive Examples:
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(Handwritten) |
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(Printed) |
For a complete explanation of bilinear music notation, including how it deals with different octave registers, how it can be applied to all transposing and non-transposing instruments, how it accommodates vocal ranges, ensembles, and all forms of composition, please order or download:
'Bilinear Music Notation -A New Notation System for the Modern Musician'
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All text & diagrams © 1997-2007 by José A. Sotorrío