X notehead (unpitched / spoken)
An X notehead calls for an unpitched or indefinite-pitch sound while preserving the written rhythm. It can mean percussion, speech or a specified noise; the instrument, nearby text or a notation key determines which sound.
- Notes and rests
- On the staff itself
- A cross or plus
Do not confuse it with
A double sharp is an X-shaped accidental placed before a normal notehead; an X notehead replaces the notehead itself.
What the sources say
- Stone, Music Notation in the Twentieth Century
Most unpitched sounds should be notated with x-shaped note-heads and identified verbally
- MusicXML 4.0 — The unpitched element
notes that are notated on the staff but lack definite pitch, such as unpitched percussion and speaking voice
- SMuFL — Noteheads
U+E0A9 (and U+1D143) noteheadXBlack X notehead black