Inputting key signatures with the panel

You can input key signatures using the Key Signatures, Tuning Systems, and Accidentals panel, both during step input and by adding them to existing music. You can also input key signatures only on single staves.

Note

These steps describe inputting with the default mouse input preference of Create item at selection.

Procedure

  1. In Write mode, do one of the following:

    • Start note input.

    • Select an existing barline immediately to the left of where you want to input a key signature.

    • Select an existing notehead or rest immediately to the right of where you want to input a key signature.

    • Select an existing key signature that you want to change.

  2. In the Notations toolbox, click Key Signatures, Tuning Systems, and Accidentals.

    The Key Signatures, Tuning Systems, and Accidentals panel opens on the right of the window.

  3. Optional: If you have not already used the key signature you want in the current flow, create the key signature you want using the Key Signatures design editor in the Key Signatures, Tuning Systems, and Accidentals panel.
  4. Input the key signature you want in one of the following ways:

    • Click a key signature to input it on all staves.

    • Alt-click a key signature to input it on a single staff only.

Result

During step input, key signatures are input at the caret position, even if this is in the middle of a bar.

Note

It is preferable to input a change of key signature at a barline. You can move it to different rhythmic positions later.

All subsequently input notes follow the input key signature, until the next existing key signature or the end of the flow, whichever comes first. If playing in notes using a MIDI keyboard, accidentals are spelled according to the key signature.

When adding key signatures to existing music, they are added immediately to the right of a barline, or immediately to the left of a selected note, even if this is in the middle of an existing bar. If you selected an existing key signature, the new key signature directly replaces the existing one.

Pressing Alt when clicking a key signature inputs the key signature only on the selected staff.

Note

An individual key signature on a single staff is not intended for transposing instruments. Transpositions of notes and key signatures are done automatically for transposing instruments, but you can check the transpositions by choosing Edit > Transposed Pitch to see your current layout with transposed pitches, rather than concert pitches.

You can also open the part of a transposing instrument and compare it to the concert pitch score.