Sharps and Flats

Modern literature often recommends that the order of sharps and flats be taught so the student is prepared for naming key signatures. Traditional literature introduces sharps and flats in the key signature starting with C major, G major and F major. I see no reason for introducing the 14 accidentals to beginning students first without relating it to the keyboard sheet music. I prefer the traditional method that first teaches the student to read the time signature, read accidentals in the music, and then read accidentals in the key signature and applying the sharp or flat to the corresponding notes in the music. Then introduce the idea of a major happy sounds and a minor sad sound as we progress through the literature. Much later, I will introduce the concept of a key as applied to the entire composition.

To learn all key signatures, I teach the poem for sharps Father Charles Goes Down And Ends Battle. Flats are the reverse order of the same poem. Then, by repeating verbally the order of the sharps and flats the student will begin to learn their sequence somewhat by ear.

I also have no problem teaching the Circle of Fifths and Fourths by demonstrating the order of sharps and flats on the piano. Piano students of any age find this a logical approach to understanding the relationships of accidentals and their keys.

For more information about piano classes Bedminster area, contact Barbara Ehrlich Piano Studio.