programmable section of keys on the top keyboard. All seven chords within any key signature selected were represented by the STAC (see photo). Functionality Large symphonic chord voicings can be played on the chordboard with 12 notes available for each of the seven chord zones (84 active notes total). Each white key on the MIDI keyboard used represents an individual note within a chord zone, and is mapped to a note within a harmonic chord voicing pattern programmed for each chord, according to major-minor tonality and a particular voicing style (such as classic, jazz, or oriental). Due to the chord voicing mapping that takes place within the software, the entry level learning curve is short. In contrast, because of the millions of possible chord voicings between each of the seven chords in a key signature, more advanced level playing technique can take place, but over a much longer period of time. The chordboard interface is made up of 7 different active chords, with the option to change chord values based on every possible key signature variation (24 unique sets of key signatures, 12 major and 12 minor each in the keys of C, Db, D, Eb, E, F, Gb, G, Ab, A, Bb, B). Each chord value can instantly change, depending on which key signature the player selects from the top keyboard in the stack of four MIDI keyboards. For example, in the Key of C, the I chord is C major, and the II chord is D minor, and so on up the scale. The chordboard allows the player to select key signature changes on the fly, and chord style, or genre changes also on the fly, facilitating a vast variety of chord voicings available for each chord. The Chordboard STAC functionality is explained visually in the following video: HOW to Play the Chordboard STAC Sample songs created with the STAC include: Music in my Soul Meso Kingman Ballad of Bordeaux STACSOUNDS AFRICANA © 2009 References and notes External links OFFICIAL SITE An in-depth look at the Nashville Notation Music Fundamentals: Tonal Music PDF Basic guide to tonal theory USPTO Main page Electronic musical instruments Keyboard instruments