Figured Bass is a method of communication used by musicians that allows people to communicate a large amount of information using just a few Roman Numerals. Figured Bass has been around for hundreds of years and is still widely used by music professionals today. Having a solid understanding of figured bass will allow you to communicate with other musicians quickly and accurately. For example...
Figured bass provides an ultra fast form of communication. By simply writing the key and a few Roman numerals, you can express exactly what chords to play in what order to another musician. Here are two different methods to communicate the exact same thing...
Figured Bass:
E Major: I vi iii IV V I
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The Novice Time Waster:
First, play an E major chord (E – G# - B), then a C# minor chord (C# - E – G#), then a G# minor chord (G# - B – D#), then an A major chord (A – C# - E), and then a B major chord (B – D# - F#), and finally an E major chord (E – G# - B).
Understanding and applying figured bass is essential in growing as a musician and improving your communication with other musicians. If you are new to figured bass, or simply wish you further your education on the subject, 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.
