7

I've occasionaly seen these arrows over numbers, but I don't know what they're called or exactly what they mean.

I'm assuming they have something to do with the motion, but I'm not sure.

Unknown arrows over numbers

1 Answer 1

5

Chevron above Arabic number marks pitch of the notes with respect to the root of the key. In this case these notes are 6 and 5 in scale of the key.

There is one flat in key signature, so the key could be F major or D minor. In this case it must be F major, as D is 6 in F (it is interval of major sixth above F), and C is 5 in F.

11
  • This doesn't answer the question of what the chevrons ˆ mean in this notation. Are they just there to point from the number to the note, or do they convey any meaning? Dec 25, 2021 at 14:10
  • @MichaelSeifert is it more clear now? Dec 25, 2021 at 14:22
  • 1
    Thanks! Is there an official name for the symbol? Also, are there any similar ones, like one facing down etc.?
    – RazerMoon
    Dec 25, 2021 at 14:36
  • 2
    These are commonly referred to as "scale-degree numbers."
    – Richard
    Dec 25, 2021 at 14:58
  • 1
    @RazerMoon I don't know any other name. And it's the only use I'm aware of, when placed above an arabic number. Sadly, it's not easy to type on computer, so people typically write ^6 ^5. In sheet music notation, ^ above a note or v below a note means marcato articulation. Also v above the note is used to notate bowing or picking upwards in string instruments. Dec 25, 2021 at 15:07

Your Answer

By clicking “Post Your Answer”, you agree to our terms of service and acknowledge that you have read and understand our privacy policy and code of conduct.

Not the answer you're looking for? Browse other questions tagged or ask your own question.