How to know what key you're in?

Question

What is a good method for figuring out what what key you're in by looking at the key signature (besides just memorizing the accidentials in each key)?
There's a different method for flats and sharps, too, right?

I remember hearing something like 'move up two half steps from the second to last flat in the key signature to find the key you're in.'

I don't think that's right; what method do YOU use?
Please help!
Thanks!

Yes, but I will not be sitting at the piano oh-so-very-conviently everytime I want to figure out what key I'm in!
:(

Answer 1

I am not sure exactly what you're asking....but I will try to answer. For example, if you were looking at the key signature and saw that there were to flats, then the key signature would be B flat. You find this by looking at the second to last note in the key signature. Another example would be, if there were three flats in the key signature(B flat, E flat, and A flat) then the key would be E flat because it is the second to last one. If there is on flat (B flat) then the key is F. If there is one sharp (F sharp) then the key is G. Hope this answers your question.

Answer 2

Geta basic Key chart that tells you the pitches and various keys of tuning. I was reading about the other day. Every single musician tunes differently in various pitches in keys.
There is no set thing in stone that says you have to tune in Key A or Key G or whatever other pitch. It just depends on what you want from your songs, that's all.

Me personally.....I use Standard A key pitch or tuning when I'm playing guitar. I use this bascially because I can tune it by ear and recognize the Pitch instantly with or without a Chromantic Tuner. I don't use dropped D or double dropped D tuning on that either. It would help you to get yourself a good $20 Chromatic Tuner like a KORG or a QUIKTUNE also to help you recognize pitches and keys easier too for your own sense of tuning, keys and pitches. Good luck

Answer 3

You could simply play a scale on a piano, using the sharps or flats in the key signature. The "do" at the beginning and end is the key you are in.