Key signatures
Written once, at the start
Writing a sharp before every F in G major would be tiring. So the sharps or flats a key needs are written once, at the start of every stave, as a key signature. They count for every note with that letter name, in every octave, all through the piece.
Quick check
What is the note marked x?
The four keys
Learn these by heart
C major
Sharps
G major
D major
Flats
F major
One sharp means G major. Two sharps mean D major. One flat means F major. A key signature with nothing in it means C major.
Quick check
This key signature has two sharps. Which major key is it?
A scale with a key signature
A scale can be written with its key signature instead. Then the sharps or flats are not written again by the notes. So exam scales come with or without a key signature.
Remember
- A key signature: the sharps or flats, once at the start of every stave.
- C none. G F sharp. D F sharp and C sharp. F B flat.
- It counts for every note with that letter, all through the piece.
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