6-6 Pitch Pattern

TwinNote represents the twelve notes of the chromatic scale as two whole tone scales, two series of six notes evenly spaced a whole step apart, a series of solid triangles pointing up, and a series of hollow triangles pointing down. This is known as a “6-6” pitch pattern.

6-6 pitch pattern in TwinNote music notation

These two whole tone scales combine in a regularly alternating pattern to form the chromatic scale.

Chromatic scale in TwinNote music notation

This regular pattern in the representation of pitch means that intervals, scales, and chords have a consistent appearance regardless of the current key or their vertical position on the staff. In technical terms, this is known as isomorphism.

For example, all major scales start with three triangle notes pointing in one direction, followed by four pointing in the other. All major thirds have two triangles pointing in the same direction, while minor thirds have triangles pointing in opposite directions. What you see always corresponds with what you hear. See the Scales and Intervals pages for illustrations and further discussion.

TwinNote uses hollow and solid noteheads to help indicate pitch rather than duration (rhythm) in order to enhance the visibility of the 6-6 pitch pattern and maximize its benefits.

Comparison with Odd and Even Numbers

A good analogy is the distinction between odd and even numbers, and how this helps with counting or determining the relationship between two numbers. In a similar way, the 6-6 pitch pattern makes the interval between two notes easier to perceive and understand. It makes the contours of scales and melodies easier to see, as well as the patterns that make up chords and harmonies.

See the Scales and Intervals pages for illustrations of the clarity and consistency that result from TwinNote’s 6-6 pitch pattern.

For examples of other alternative notation systems that have a chromatic staff and a 6-6 pitch pattern, see the Influences page.

Next: Rhythm Notation