An example B chromatic scaleįor this example - the chromatic scale in the key of B, let's assume that we are working with a key that is on the circle of 5ths - B major scale, which is a sharp-based key signature, and we want to identify some chromatic scale notes outside that key. when playing the notes from lowest to the highest pitch, then use flats when descending. Chromatic scales without a key signatureįor both C major key signature and A natural minor key signature, there are no sharp or flat notes, so since there is no key signature, we have no clue as to whether to use sharp or flat names to identify any non-natural notes.Īlthough there seem to be no generally agreed rules on how to handle this, one common music theory convention is to use sharps when ascending the scale ie. Eb major key signature, where flat note names would be used. The same principle applies to flat-based key signatures, eg. G major key signature, and we want to use the chromatic scale to identify notes outside that scale, sharps would be used for those chromatic scale notes. major scale, or any minor scale), then the key signature will be the guide as to whether to use sharps or flats for the chromatic scale.įor example, if a sharp-based key signature is used, eg.

If chromatic scale notes are being used and identified within the context of a scale with a key signature (eg. Chromatic scale naming in the context of a key signature When it comes to naming the notes shown in the last step, the decision to be made is whether to use sharp or flat note names, both ascending or descending.

This step gives note names to the piano keys identified in the previous step.

B flat major chromatic scale