So if the key signature represents G major – then it also represents E minor (a minor 3rd below G). To find the relative minor scale, count down a minor 3rd from the major scale’s root: So once you’ve identified the major scale, you still need to identify the relative minor scale – since the music could also be minor. Every key signature represents BOTH a major scale, and a minor scale – called ‘relative major and minor scales’. Relative Major / Minor Scalesīut we’re not yet finished. In Key sig 4, the last flat is Cb – which means the key is Gb major (an extreme example, but still correct). In Key sig 3, the last flat is Ab – which means the key is Eb major. – So if Bb is the last flat – the key is F major (just count down a 4th to find the major scale’s root).īefore reading on, which major scales do the following 2 key signatures represent? In Key sig 1, the last sharp is A# – which means the key is B major. In Key sig 1, the last sharp is C# – which means the key is D major. – So if F# is the last sharp – then the key is G major (just count up a half-step from the last sharp):īefore reading on, which major scales do the following 2 key signatures represent? Look for the last sharp listed (furthest to the right). Here’s how I identify key signatures quickly: Sharp keys:

Instead I’d rather show you how to build any key from scratch – so that you never worry about forgetting. I don’t suggest memorizing the unique sharp / flat combinations for all keys (although you’ll start to remember most of them after a while). In most cases this includes a number of black notes (called ‘accidentals’), which can be spelt using sharps OR flats – but never both. There’s 12 major scales which exist, and each has a unique set of notes. You can identify which key a piece of music is in just by looking at this display of accidentals (plus a few other factors in the music). To minimize the number of sharp / flat signs in the music, a composer starts the piece with a ‘key signature’ – which is a display of sharps or flats which remain in effect throughout the music:

B flat major scale above the staff