Wicki–Hayden note layout

It is an isomorphic note layout, which means that musical intervals always have the same shape, allowing the player to use the same patterns and fingering in different keys.

In western music's preeminent major scale, the important notes are the white keys on a piano.

It is argued from this that playing impromptu ornamental flourishes and accidental passing tones is less intuitive than on chromatically ordered key arrangements.

It initially was argued that the less-intuitive ergonomic access to chromatic intervals would prove to be a detriment to performing musical styles that make heavier use of dissonance.

However, experimental players of the layout report the isomorphism provides a firmer framework to choose desired sounds and effects.