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An introduction to music theory
An introduction to music theory

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5.11 Review 7

Group 1: identifying minor key signatures of up to four sharps or four flats

Activity 1

Match the keys of C minor, G minor, D minor, E minor, B minor, F minor to the key signatures.

Using the following two lists, match each numbered item with the correct letter.

  1. E minor

  2. D minor

  3. G minor

  4. C minor

  5. F minor

  6. B minor

  • a.

  • b.

  • c.

  • d.

  • e.

  • f.

The correct answers are:
  • 1 = c
  • 2 = f
  • 3 = a
  • 4 = b
  • 5 = d
  • 6 = e

Answer

E minor The key signature for E minor has one sharp. Remember that if you wrote out the three forms of the E minor scale, you would have to consider whether to sharpen the sixth and/or seventh notes of the different forms of the scale. If you wish, refer to the chart of minor scales (Example 56) to check how to write out the three forms of this scale.

D minor The key signature for D minor has one flat. As in the previous example, if you wrote out the three forms of the D minor scale, you would have to consider whether to sharpen the sixth and/or seventh notes of the different forms of the scale. Note that, since the sixth note of the scale is B, to sharpen it, i.e. to raise it a semitone, would bring you to B (not B). Check this by referring to the chart of minor scales (Example 56).

G minor The key signature for G minor has two flats. You might want to refer to the chart of minor scales (Example 56) to check how to write out the three forms of this scale.

C minor The key signature for C minor has three flats. You might wish to refer to the chart of minor scales (Example 56) to check how to write out the three forms of this scale.

F minor The key signature for F minor has four flats. Refer to the chart of minor scales (Example 56) to check how to write out the three forms of this scale.

B minor The key signature for B minor has two sharps. If you wish, refer to the chart of minor scales (Example 56) to check how to write out the three forms of this scale.