I use a number of different methods of charting; it all depends on the situation.
For
live events and/or
club work, I typically chart out the following (assuming there is no sheet music already provided):
- Name of the Song
- Tempo marking and Meter (if different than 4/4 or Common Time)
- Basic Feel. This can be just the words "Two-beat" to actually writing out one or two bars of the basic groove.
- Important info like "Half-time on Bridge"
- Any peculiar fills, figures or endings that are not predictable or I may not remember.
With this type of situation, there is usually a lot of rehearsals prior to the performance ... so extensive charting is not needed, especially if it's Top 40.
Now it's originals, I'll usually chart out the form. Something simple like
V - 16 for sixteen measures in the verse,
C - 8 for eight measures in the Chorus, etc. I use
V2 to show second verse usually when there is something unique about it ... like a groove change, etc.
I do a lot of other things as well, but you get the idea. I have to save some stuff for paying students you know! LOL
For
recording sessions, I do just about the same thing, but with more detail. I write out important ensemble figures and other important things that I may hear or want to do having just listened to a scratch track of the tune. I also make notes of any specific instrumentation I want to use ... which is what I listen for first when in the studio. Sessions are a lot different because once you listen or start to create the music, you continue with it until you are done. It's the opposite with live events, etc., when you rehearse and plan to perform it later.
One other mention would be that I make notes of what I plan to do percussion ... if I'm going to be tracking percussion as well. I try to think BIG PICTURE and leave holes or spaces for the percussion to do it's thing. Sometimes a producer can't hear what I'm hearing, so by making notes and such, I'm able to remind them of my plans ... and even sing the counter-part to them while I'm tracking the primary instrument ... just so they can see how it will all fit together.
You get the idea I'm sure; nothing knew or earth shaking with what I've said.
