Numbers instead of names: I-IV-V in C, G and D

Why write 1·4·5 when C·F·G already says where the fingers go? Letters are enough until the song changes key. In G those same three roles are G·C·D, and in D they are D·G·A. The numbers stay.

One table, three sets of letters

scale degree	in C	in G	in D
I	C	G	D
IV	F	C	G
V	G	D	A

Read in columns: C F G, then G C D, then D G A. These are not three progressions to memorise, only one sentence at three pitches. What those roles do to the ear is in the lesson on degrees and progressions.

I, IV, V and the writing 1, 4, 5

Books write I, IV, V. Guitarmatic also shows 1, 4, 5, and for a minor chord it adds m, for example 6m. Roman vi and ordinary 6m are the same role. We do not call this the Nashville system.

Watch the second meaning of the numbers. I-IV-V is three chords in a key. 1-3-5 can describe three notes inside one chord.

Listen, then name

Open Progressions, pick I-IV-V-I and the key of C. For a few loops say “one, four, five, one”. Then switch to G without changing the words. The address does not set the key, so you choose it on the screen.

Jingle Bells in C: C, F, G. Tryumfy Króla Niebieskiego in G: G, C, D. That is the same family of roles, not a promise that the whole song repeats I-IV-V-I. On the card switch the labels from names to scale degrees. That setting does not live in the address.

To name a scale degree on the neck, open Find the note, level 5. Number Trainer needs a login, so that guest path is the one that stays open.