Notation Conventions
Some things to be aware of when writing for jazz combos or big bands:
- When writing in swing styles, avoid having an on beat quaver followed by a quaver rest. It is so much easier to read a crotchet with a dot or similar articulation.
- Include lots of articulation and dynamic markings so the band knows exactly what you are going for.
- It is perfectly acceptable to use whole bar repeats in the rhythm section.
- When using accidentals, writing what is enharmonically correct is not necessarily the easiest way to read it. Generally, avoid using accidentals that mean you have to keep re-altering the same note. (see example)
- Make sure the page isn’t cluttered and hard to read. For example, avoiding having chord symbols written in the same space as staff text.
- Don’t write over the middle of the bar! This is very hard to read.