4 Tips for Choosing the Perfect Key of a Song
Whether you are in the process of writing a new song or you are trying to find the best arrangement of a song that you already enjoy, there are a few things you need to take into consideration. Making music means getting to choose the best musical key for a song. It is one of the most critical aspects of creating music.
Sadly, the resolution often gets pushed aside, with most musicians focusing on tempo or arrangement instead. However, the musical key for a piece is much more powerful than it ever gets credit for. Next time you find yourself deciding on a song, choose not to dismiss the key.
Why a Song’s Key Is Essential
A song’s key is essential. When looking at a new piece of music, the key signature will give you an idea of which notes will encounter accidentals and which notes will not – assuming you know your scales. You can take this info and better formulate chords to accompany it, allowing all the parts of a piece to work well together. So, knowing a song’s key enables you to create a piece of music that functions well as a whole.
Think about it this way. You have sheet music written in the key of G – and you know that the G scale has an F# in it. Therefore, every F will be an F# (assuming no transposition is required). As a result, you will know the right chords to play – such as the chord G-B-D – to end up with a beautifully defined, harmonized tone that you hear in the songs you listen to. Keys are essential for determining:
- The scales and chords as mentioned above.
- The best notes for the bassline and melody – these two need to come together in harmony.
- How to support the musician’s ability and strengths.
- How someone listening will interpret the piece and the emotional response it will solicit.
Knowing a song’s key is essential if you want it pleasing to the ears, but how do you choose the best key for a song? Whether you are writing a song on your own, working through a new piece of sheet music, or are trying to determine the best key for a new song, consider the following four tips.
Tip #1: Choose a Key That Supports the Range of the Performer
The range is essential. Not all instruments sound spectacular at every end of the spectrum, just as every voice does not either. On the flip side, there are specific ranges for both that sound unique, and the chosen key should focus on that. Take some time to determine the lowest and the highest notes that can be sung or played – while still carrying a strong, steady tone. Then, work your key around your findings.
Tip #2: Consider the Musician’s Ability – and the Instrument
Well-established musicians should be able to accommodate a piece of music in any key. Though, one should note that not all keys are easily applied to every instrument. Those instruments that transpose, such as a B-flat clarinet or an E-flat alto sax, may find specific keys tough to play – especially those with many accidentals. While the key may sound fitting, playing the piece technically while maintaining a nice tone could prove challenging to newer musicians.
Overall, you want a key that will sound good based on the person who is playing the instrument or the one who is singing. You will find that many pre-written pieces of music come in various keys so that you may match ability – or create your own if you have some basic music theory skills.
Tip #3: Use a Key to Set the Mood
Choosing the best musical key for a song can also depend on the mood you are trying to achieve. The tones will change with the key, leaving some keys sounding more enjoyable and cheerful while others are dark and devious. Keep in mind that major keys are often associated with more pleasant pieces, whereas minor keys are more ominous. Of course, this is not always the case.
As an example, if joy is the mood you are going for, you may want to consider the key of B-flat major or A major. If you are going for something sad or harsh, the C minor or D major keys may work well. And A minor is perfect for a sweet, gentle mood. Understanding how you want the listener to feel is an excellent indicator of the key or keys you should consider.
Tip #4: Change the Key to Add Variety
Variety is essential when it comes to music. Sure, it is easy to stick to the same tone each time. But let us be honest – nobody wants to hear one song after the next that sounds similar to the one before it. Do you have a set of songs you intend to play or perform at a concert or show? Do you have an album of songs you are putting together? If you have more than one song, you will want to consider using pieces in different keys.
As discussed, different keys can affect mood and the overall feel of the composition. Therefore, by carefully choosing the key, you will relate the feelings and emotions to each piece. Choosing the best key for variety can apply to the same song, too. If you are looking to make your chorus more distinct from the verses, you can make it stand out by changing the key. That is right – no rule says you need to choose only one. Successfully changing the key within the song can add depth to the piece.
As a musician, you have the creative ability to change a musical number to meet your needs. With an understanding of basic music theory, you will know the scales, the notes, and the chords that go along with a chosen key. When you combine this with tempo, accompaniment, and tone, you create the finished product – and relay a certain feeling and message with your piece. It all starts with choosing the correct key.