Major or minor? The key of a melody
Look for the raised 7th
A melody with no sharps or flats could be in C major or A minor. Look for clues:
- a G sharp (the raised 7th of A minor) points to A minor;
- the last note is usually the key note.
Quick check
A melody has no key signature, a G sharp, and ends on A. Which key is it in?
One sharp: G major or E minor?
One sharp could mean G major or E minor. E minor would raise its 7th to D sharp. No D sharp, and an ending on G: this melody is in G major.
Quick check
A melody has one flat, a C sharp, and ends on D. Which key?
Remember
- A key signature: a major key or its relative minor.
- A raised 7th points to the minor.
- The last note is usually the key note.
Loading the question