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.

DONT WORRY
IF THIS LOOKS
COMPLICATED!
The keys in the
middle are all
MINOR.
The
ones round the
outside
are
MAJOR.

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).
To remember
the order of the
sharps...

FATHER
CHARLES
GOES
DOWN
AND
ENDS
BATTLE

BATTLE
ENDS
AND
DOWN
GOES
CHARLES
FATHER

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