Music Key Signature Calculator
Identify any musical key signature instantly with our free music theory calculator. Whether you know the key name or the number of sharps and flats, this tool will show you the signature, major scale, and relative minor key. A perfect reference for students, composers, and musicians. Explore more music tools on CalculatorBolt.
Identify Key Signature
Quick Actions
How to Find a Key Signature
A key signature is a set of sharps (♯) or flats (♭) at the beginning of a staff that indicates the key of a piece. You can find the key by either selecting its name directly or by counting the number of accidentals. The order of sharps (F-C-G-D-A-E-B) and flats (B-E-A-D-G-C-F) follows the circle of fifths.
Inputs Explained
- Find by Key Name: The quickest way. Simply select the major key you're interested in.
- Find by Accidentals: Use this if you're looking at a piece of music and need to count the sharps or flats in the signature.
Example
If you count 3 sharps in the key signature:
- The third sharp in the order is 'G♯'. The key is one half-step above G♯, which is A Major.
- The key signature will show F♯, C♯, G♯.
- Its relative minor key is F♯ Minor.
Tips & Important Notes
- Mnemonics Help: For sharps, remember "Father Charles Goes Down And Ends Battle". For flats, remember "Battle Ends And Down Goes Charles' Father".
- Enharmonic Keys: Some keys have different names but sound the same (e.g., F♯ Major and G♭ Major). This calculator uses the sharp spelling for keys with sharps.
- Relative Minors: Every major key has a relative minor key that shares its key signature and is a minor third below its tonic.
FAQs
Disclaimer
This music key signature calculator is an educational tool for music theory reference. It follows standard Western notation practices. Interpretation of music and key can be complex and may vary by genre and composer. For advanced study, consult with a qualified music instructor.