The Western musical system is based on a scale of twelve pitches, which are organized into octaves. The most common scale used is the major scale, consisting of seven notes, while the minor scale is another frequently used scale. These scales form the foundation for melodies and harmonies in Western music. In this system, notes are represented by letters from A to G, and sharps (♯) and flats (♭) indicate alterations in pitch. The staff is a set of five lines and four spaces used to notate music, allowing musicians to read and perform compositions accurately.