Topmusicanswers
- Why are double flats used?
- Why don't we use double flats or double sharps in major scales?
- What does it mean when a note has two flats?
- What does a double flat or sharp do to a note?
Why are double flats used?
The purpose of double sharps and flats in key signatures is to represent this scale in the way it is written, and avoid constant use of accidentals on a note - as per the example switching between G and G#.
Why don't we use double flats or double sharps in major scales?
The reason that we have double-flats is a bit more complicated, since there are no scales that require us to modify existing notes by lowering notes. But there are chords that require us to lower the 7th note by placing a flat in front. If that key's 7th note is already flat, then you'd need to use a double-flat.
What does it mean when a note has two flats?
An accidental sign consisting of two flat symbols (♭♭) that lower a note by two half steps (two semitones). The double flat symbol alters the pitch of the note to which it is attached as well as any subsequent occurrence of the same note (identical line or space) in the same measure.
What does a double flat or sharp do to a note?
A double sharp raises a note by a whole-step, while a double flat lowers a note by a whole-step.In the how to write a double sharp in music previous lesson we touched upon a method for reducing the number of sharp and flat signs when writing music in a particular key.
