• A key signature is a collection of every accidental found in a scale.
• To demonstrate this, we will use the key of C Minor, which has three flats.
• Instead of writing a flat next to every E, A, and B; we can simply add a key signature to the beginning of the measure.
• Next, let's examine Db Major, which has five flats.
• Again, a key signature can be used instead of writing each accidental.
• As you may have noticed, the flats are arranged in a special order.
• Bb is first, followed by Eb, Ab, Db, and Gb.
• Next comes Cb and finally Fb.
• You can remember this order by using the following saying: ''Battle Ends And Down Goes Charles' Father''.
• Key signatures can also comprise sharps.
• Let's try A Major, which has three sharps.
• The C#, F#, and G# move into the key signature.
• Finally, let's try E Major, with four sharps
• The F#, G#, C#, and D# move into the key signature.
• Sharps are arranged in the opposite order of flats.
• F# comes first, followed by C#, G#, and D#.
• Next comes A#, E#, and finally B#.
• You can remember this order by using the following saying: ''Father Charles Goes Down And Ends Battle''.
• Use this chart to reference key signatures for both treble and bass clefs.