Definition, Meaning & Synonyms
key-signature
noun
/kiː ˈsɪɡ.nə.tʃər/
Definition
A key signature is a set of sharp or flat symbols placed together on the staff, indicating the key of a piece of music.
Examples
- In the key signature of G major, there is one sharp, which is F sharp.
- The key signature appears at the beginning of each line in the sheet music.
- Different pieces of music can have different key signatures to convey various emotions and tonalities.
Meaning
Key signatures help musicians understand which notes are to be played sharp or flat, guiding them to perform the piece correctly in its intended tonality.
Synonyms
- musical key indication
- tonal marker
