Percussion notation is a type of musical notation indicating notes to be played by percussion instruments.As with other forms of musical notation, sounds are represented by symbols which are usually written onto a musical staff (or stave).Percussion instruments are generally grouped into two categories: pitched and non-pitched. The notation of non-pitched percussion instruments is less standardized.Cymbals are usually notated with 'x' note heads, drums with normal elliptical note heads and auxiliary percussion with alternative note heads.s with other forms of musical notation, sounds are represented by symbols which are usually written onto a musical staff (or stave). Percussion instruments are generally grouped into two categories: pitched and non-pitched.