neirocca sound-first music theory

Figured Bass and Roman Numerals

What is tested

Chords must be labeled either with roman numerals plus a, b and c, or with chord symbols. Choosing the right numeral is usually easier than choosing the right inversion figure, so practice the two separately before combining them.

Common mistakes

The roman numeral is usually correct and the letter after it is not. The letter describes which chord member is in the bass — b means the third, c means the fifth — not which notes appear second and third as you read up the staff.

Practice with

The tool below checks your answer against the theory engine, so you get the same verdict a marker would.

Open the tool: Roman Numeral Analysis Trainer →

Read the lesson

Related reading

All topics in this exam