So on the clefs above, you can see that middle C is the first note of the treble clef and the last note of the bass clef. On this site (only), a convention is used for all key signatures where middle C is shown with an orange line through it (you can see this on the piano diagrams too). Identifying middle C on both clefsīass clef notes are usually used to show notes lower in pitch / sound than treble clef notes. Sharp key signatures use the Father Charles Goes Down And Ends Battle pattern.įor an example of this, have a look at the C# major key signature, which describes this phrase's, origin (the circle of fifths ) in more detail. The exact order and position of the key signature symbols after the clef symbol varies according to whether it is a sharp or flat-based key signature.įlat key signatures, like the one above, use the Battle Ends And Down Goes Charles Father pattern.įor an example of this, have a look at the Cb major key signature, which describes this phrase's origin ( the circle of fourths ) in more detail. This example is used because it shows the key signature positions of all possible notes - ie.all scale notes (from A to G) have been flattened. The key signature is set of sharps or flats (never mixed) shown after the treble or bass clef on the musical staff.īelow is the Cb major key signature which has 7 flat notes, on the treble then bass clef.

The other situations where the key signature appears to be missing is for the C major key signature and A natural minor key signature, neither of which contain any sharp or flat notes, so no symbols are shown after treble or bass clef. If a key signature would not be useful in simplifying the musical arrangement, it need not be used at all, in which case each sharp or flat symbol is shown before each note on the staff. When a piece of music is written in a given key, the sharp and flat symbols of that key can be written at the beginning of the staff to save having to repeatedly write those accidental symbols before every note on the staff. This page gives an overview of key signatures on the bass and treble clef.

E flat major key signature bass clef