The Piano Keyboard Notes

The White keys

• See how there are two black keys then three black keys – then two again – then three and so on
  • 
• Each pattern contains the SAME 12 notes but at higher or lower pitches. Think of Mickey Mouse singing a high C note and Pavarotti singing a low C note – same note but at different pitches.
• These notes are represented by the first seven letters of the alphabet…
• A, B, C, D, E, F, and G repeated at different pitches.
  • 
• It is important that you are able (eventually) to name ALL the white notes.
• Use the pattern of the BLACK keys to help you.
• For instance, notice that the C keys are the keys to the left of the ‘2’ black keys or that the F keys are one key to left of the ‘3’ black keys.
• Using the black keys to guide you see if you can find the following notes and where they are repeated.
• Repeat this exercise until you can automatically name any white key on the piano
  • (G, B, A, D, C, E)

The Black keys

• The black keys are known as either SHARPS ( # ) or FLATS (b)
  • (don’t worry about WHY – just memorize it all for now)
• They are named using the white key NEAREST to them on their left or right.
  • 
• Can you see how the other black keys are named
  •