Key Signatures: The Circle of Fifths We can use a circle of fifths to tell us all the keys, all the relative

keys and their key signatures. This is particularly useful when

composing, as key signatures allow you to tell quickly what key a

piece of music is in.

To tell a key from its sharp key signature, remember that the key

is always one semitone higher than the last sharp (e.g. For G, the

last sharp is F#).

To tell a key from its flat key signature, subtract one flat (e.g. For

Bb, subtract the Eb and the key is Bb).

DONT WORRY

IF THIS LOOKS

COMPLICATED!

The keys in the

middle are all

MINOR. The

ones round the

outside are

MAJOR.

FATHER

CHARLES

GOES

DOWN

AND

ENDS

BATTLE

BATTLE

ENDS

AND

DOWN

GOES

CHARLES

FATHER

To remember

the order of the

sharps...

To remember

the order of the

flats...

Some Practice with Key Signatures 1. Below are some major scales and key signatures

A. Match up each scale with its key signature

B. Name each scale and key signature

2. Use the circle to work out the relative minor of each key

written on the right above and write it next to the key signature.

3. Use Sibelius to compose 8 bar melodies in:

A. F major

B. A major

Extension: Compose melodies as above in each keys relative minor