The Basics of Music There are twelve total notes in music. Here they are in order… A - A# - B - C - C# - D – D# - E – F – F# - G – G# or… A – Bb – B – C – Db – D – Eb – E – F – Gb – G – Ab A few key terms to learn and memorize... Half Step – A note directly next to another. Ex: Going from A# to B or G to Gb Whole Step – Two notes away from each other. Ex: Going from C to D or G# to F# Sharp (#) – To play one note up from the given letter. Ex: F to F# or D to D# Flat (b) – To play one note down from the given letter. Ex: E to Eb or B to Bb Learning the basics of music is essential in developing good songwriting skills. Even if you are already proficient at your instrument, learning notes, intervals, and more will boost your capability as a musician and a songwriter. If you are new to music, or just looking to further your education, then pick up a copy of Music Theory For The Modern Rockin' Metalhead in the online store. You can get a head start by downloading sample chapters here.