5 Music Theory Symbols Every Musician Should Know (Beginner-Friendly)

Today, we'll explore some symbols you might have seen in sheet music but may not have understood. I'll introduce you to five common music theory symbols and explain their meanings, helping you feel more confident the next time you read music!

First, let's talk about some symbols that are referred to as accidentals:

1. Natural sign - Natural form of a note that cancels the effect of sharps and flats.

In context: If a piece is in the key of G major (which we know has one sharp: F#) and there is a natural symbol in front of any F# within the piece, the F# will then become an F natural.

2. Sharp sign - Raises the natural form of the note by a half step.

In context: If a sharp sign is featured in a piece's key signature (at the beginning of the staff), that means the line or space the middle of the sharp falls on is the note that will consistently be sharp throughout the entire piece. If sharp signs are present throughout the music, that means the notes they are in front of are not already noted in the key signature.

3. Flat sign - Lowers the natural form of a note by a half step.

In context: Like with sharp signs, if a flat sign is featured in a piece's key signature (at the beginning of the staff), that means the line or space that the the flat falls on is the note that will consistently be flat throughout the entire piece. If flat signs are present throughout the music, that means the notes they are in front of are not already noted in the key signature.

Now, let's look at two symbols that are seen at either the end of a section or piece:

4. Double bar line - Signifies the end of a piece.

In context: When reaching the end of a piece of a tune, you will always see the double barline. It's like the period at the end of a sentence, and signifies that the music is finished.

5. Repeat sign - Repeat indicated section.

In context: When approaching a repeat sign that has dots on the left side, this indicates that the previous section is to be repeated. If the repeat sign has dots on the right side, the following section will be repeated once the next repeat sign is reached.

So, there you have it! Those were five symbols that frequently show up in sheet music. If you weren’t quite sure what they meant before, you’re all set now! With this fresh knowledge in your back pocket, you’ll feel way more confident diving into sheet music. Plus, it’s going to make the whole experience a lot more fun and easy to navigate.

I recommend getting yourself some flashcards (these are the ones I use with my students) so that you can practice these symbols. I'd also advise drawing them to further commit them to memory and give you confidence when you inevitably have to notate these symbols on your own.

For more on this topic and to practice along with me, watch the video below!