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If you play double bass, you'll need to know your doubles!

Grade 4 - Double Sharps and Double Flats

Double sharps and double flats raise or lower a note by two semitones. Learn how they’re written, played on piano, and why composers use them in keys.

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Fascinating Fact:

Piano tip: for a double sharp, play the key two to the right. For a double flat, play the key two to the left. Check enharmonics carefully.

In Specialist Music Theory, Grade 4 study includes double sharps (?) and double flats (?). You’ll see them in keys and chromatic movement where spelling matters. This quiz practises recognising the symbols, counting semitone changes, and choosing the correct enharmonic spelling for clean harmonic logic.

Key Terms

Double sharp (?): Raises a note by two semitones (a whole tone) while keeping the same letter name.
Double flat (?): Lowers a note by two semitones (a whole tone) while keeping the same letter name.
Enharmonic equivalent: A note that sounds the same pitch as another but is written differently (e.g., F? and G).

Frequently Asked Questions (Click to see answers)

What does a double sharp mean in music theory?

A double sharp (?) raises the written note by two semitones. For example, C? sounds the same as D, but its spelling shows the line of harmony in the key.

How do I play double flats on the piano?

Move two semitones lower from the written key. For instance, A? is the key two to the left of A and sounds like G. Always keep the original letter name in mind.

Why use double sharps or flats instead of enharmonic notes?

Composers use them to keep note names consistent with the key and chord. Correct spelling clarifies scale degrees and voice-leading, making the harmony easy to read.