Definition

Ledger lines are short lines drawn through the stems of notes thatt are too high or too low to be placed on the staff.

Table of contents

Length

Thickness

Placement

LENGTH

Should extend less than a half space on each side of the notehead.
Ex.A

When there are intervals of 2nds which have ledger lines, the ledger lines should be twice as wide to make sure they are clearly seen.
Ex.B

 With A Suspended Note:

  • Downward Stems:
    • The ledger line above the top suspended note should be longer, to make a slight bump on the top of the note.
    • Ex.A
    • If the suspended notes are in thirds, the ledger line aobve the top suspended note should be shortened.
    • Ex. B
  • Upward Stems
    • The ledger line below the suspended note should be longer, to make a slight bump on the top of the note.
      Ex.C       
    • If the suspended notes are in thirds, the lowest ledger line should be shortened.
      Ex.D

Two or More Suspended Notes on the same stem:

    • Downward Stem
      • Ledger line above the highest suspended to is shorter.
      • Ex.A
    • Upward Stem
      • The ledger line below the lowest suspended note is shortened.
      • Ex. B

 

THICKNESS

Somewhat thicker than a staff line.

PLACEMENT

Ledger Lines are 1 space apart, the same as the distance between staff lines.