Inputting key signatures with the popover

You can input key signatures using the key signatures popover, both during note input and by adding them to existing music. You can also input key signatures only on single staves.

Note

  • You cannot input custom key signatures using the popover, you can only input them using the panel.

  • It is not necessary to input different key signatures for transposing instruments, as Dorico Pro automatically shows the appropriate key signatures for transposing instruments in transposing layouts.

Procedure

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

    • Start note input.

    • Select an item at the rhythmic position where you want to input a key signature. If you want to input a key signature on a single staff, select an item that belongs to that staff only.

  2. Optional: If you want to input key signatures onto multiple specific staves at once, extend the caret to those staves.
  3. Press Shift-K to open the key signatures popover.
  4. Enter the key signature you want into the popover.

    For example, enter g for G minor or 3s for 3 sharps.

    Note

    Entering 3s creates a key signature of A major, rather than F♯ minor.

  5. Input the key signature and close the popover in one of the following ways:

    • To input a key signature on all staves, press Return.

    • To input a key signature only on the selected staff or staves across which the caret extends, press Alt/Opt-Return.

Result

During note input, key signatures are input at the caret position, even if this is in the middle of a bar. However, it is preferable to input key signature changes at barlines.

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 at the rhythmic position of the earliest selected item. They appear to the right of barlines and clefs, and to the left of other items, 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.

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.