Definition of Flat (music)
In music, flat means lower in pitch. The flat symbol, ♭, indicates that the note to which it is applied is played one chromatic semitone lower. The opposite of flat is sharp, indicating a raising of pitch.
The flat symbol (♭) appears in key signatures to indicate which notes are flat throughout a section of music, and also in front of individual notes as an accidental, indicating that the note is flat until the next bar line.
Related terms
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Questions people ask
Real questions from the Stack Exchange community – follow a link to read the discussion.
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- B flat minor - the key of death ... seriously? · Music SE
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Frequently asked questions
What is Flat (music)?
In music, flat means lower in pitch. The flat symbol, ♭, indicates that the note to which it is applied is played one chromatic semitone lower. The opposite of flat is sharp, indicating a raising of pitch.