5/1 Understanding Treble & Bass Clefs

What is the main function of the treble clef in music notation?

• To indicate the rhythm of a piece

• To show the pitch of notes above middle C

• To mark the end of a composition

• To indicate the tempo

Which symbol is used to represent the bass clef in written music?

• 𝄞 (G-clef)

• 𝄢 (F-clef)

• ♩ (Quarter note)

• 𝄡 (C-clef)

Which of the following notes is found on the second line from the bottom of the treble clef staff?

• G

• E

• F

• D

What is the name of the note located on the fourth line of the bass clef staff?

• F

• A

• C

• G

Which group of notes correctly represents the spaces of the treble clef staff from bottom to top?

• FACE

• EGBDF

• ACEG

• GBDF

If a composer wants to write music for a cello, which clef is most commonly used and why?

• Treble clef, because the cello plays high notes

• Bass clef, because the cello plays lower notes

• Alto clef, because the cello only plays in the alto range

• Tenor clef, because the cello never plays low notes

A student is reading a piece of music written in treble clef. Which mnemonic can help them remember the order of the lines from bottom to top?

• Good Boys Do Fine Always

• Every Good Boy Does Fine

• All Cows Eat Grass

• FACE

Why might a composer choose to use both treble and bass clefs in a piano composition?

• To indicate different tempos for each hand

• To show the use of both high and low pitches played simultaneously

• To make the music look more complex

• To avoid using accidentals

Given a melody that moves from middle C up to the G above it, which clef would be most appropriate for notating this melody, and why?

• Bass clef, because it is easier to read for high notes

• Treble clef, because it covers the range from middle C upwards

• Alto clef, because it centers on middle C

• Tenor clef, because it is used for all melodies

A composer is writing a duet for a violin and a tuba. Which clefs should be used for each instrument, and what is the reasoning behind this choice?

• Treble clef for both, because all instruments use the same clef

• Bass clef for violin, treble clef for tuba, because of their ranges

• Treble clef for violin, bass clef for tuba, because violin plays higher notes and tuba plays lower notes

• Alto clef for both, because it is the most versatile