Double flat or natural?

I am notating a piece in Ab major. So the key signature is Bb Eb Ab Db.

But I do not know when I should use a double flat or a natural sign. For example, is E natural or Fb correct? How about D natural or Ebb? Similarly, A natural or Bbb?

Thanks!

Depends on context. In Ab major, an E natural is correct when using a C major chord to go into F minor (the submediant). An Fb is correct, though, when moving chromatically downwards, say to the dominant, Eb. Fb is also correct for the flattened 6th chord (bVI) (on which one often finds a augmented 6th).

You have to learn these things by experience. Otherwise, post examples on here in context, and people will advise you.

A very broad rule of thumb is that you flatten a note when going downwards, and sharpen when going upwards. So Ab, A nat, Bb will be correct more often than Ab, Bbb, Bb.

EDIT: I should refresh the page before replying next time. Three posts in a row starting with the same sentence, heh...

Though the context is paramount, I usually avoid using double-flats and double-sharps whenever possible.

Appreciate the responses.

I initially was using a MIDI keyboard to input notes into Finale notepad. So Finale decided for me what notation to use (does the program notate considering the context?). But once I started inputting notes by mouse, I encountered this dilemma.

Working on the score. Will try and post when finished.

I am notating a piece in Ab major. So the key signature is Bb Eb Ab Db.

But I do not know when I should use a double flat or a natural sign. For example, is E natural or Fb correct? How about D natural or Ebb? Similarly, A natural or Bbb?

Thanks!

Hello there,

Well, the scale for Ab (A flat) major is:

Ab Bb C Db Eb F G Ab

It really depends on where you are "going", because when you modulate into a different key, the key signature changes as well. And yes, some music notation softwares cannot recognise the key after you modulates, so if the original key signature is there, you will have to use double flat to get the note that you want.

I'm not sure if I am making any sense at all, but I hope that helped you.

Munkey

say if the theory tells you: make the note flat.

but the note is already flat. so make it double flat. thats all it is. lol.

Attached is the score if anyone would like to take a look at it. Feedback is welcome.

Thanks all.

A Dream Op.1.MUS