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Nashville Numbers

The Nashville Number System writes chords as numbers instead of letter names. A 1 is the chord built on the first note of the key, a 4 on the fourth, and so on. Because the numbers don't change when the key does, the same chart works for any singer, in any key.

Pick a key, build a progression, and hear it. For the notation and chart symbols, read the Nashville Number System subject. For the wider picture, explore Practical Music Theory.

1. Pick a key

2. The chords in C

These are the seven chords that belong to the key. Tap one to hear it and add it to your progression.

3. Your progression

One number is one bar. Put two numbers in square brackets, like [4 5], to split a bar between them.

4 beats a bar · quarter-note tempo. Metronome plays with the progression.
Troubleshooting

Error list

NN-001
A part of the progression couldn't be read. Use the numbers 1 to 7, optionally with ♭ or b, ♯ or # in front, a chord type after (-, 7, maj7, -7, °, ø, +, sus, sus2, 6, -6), and a slash bass like /3. Separate bars with spaces, and use square brackets for a split bar: [4 5].
NN-002
Sound isn't available. The browser couldn't start its audio engine, or audio is blocked. Check the device isn't on silent, tap a button once and try again, or use a current version of Safari, Chrome or Firefox. Everything else on the page still works.
QZ-001
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