Re: [Harp-L] Just what exactly is 'key'?

[sheltraw@xxxxxxxxxxxx]

Hi doug

There is yet a third important category: Those who are aware of the many
definitions of "key" and find them ambiguous and of little utility.

I think that it is important for the beginner to understand this and I
think that it gets increasingly more important as one advances. I have
heard many folks (not necessarily on Harp-L) empower ambiguous musical
definitions of "key" with utility the definitions do not possess.

PS: When I wrote previously that "I don't have a definition for the term."
I should have been a bit more precise. I should have written that I
do not have a musical definition for the term. The only definition of
"key" that I see of a benefit is that used in standard notation of music.
But that definition applies to a notational rather than musical convention.

PS PS: What key would you (or anyone else) assign Coltrane's "Impressions"?

Cheers!


> On the topic of "key" the members of this list probably fall mainly into
> two groups: those who have a working definition of key that they are well
> served by; and those who do not, but want to learn from those who do.
>
> One of the great things about harp-L is that you can be assured that those
> who have this knowledge will generously share it with those who are
> seeking it.  And of course others can join the conversation as well.
>
> Doug H
>   ----- Original Message -----
>   From: sheltraw@xxxxxxxxxxxx
>   To: Doug H
>   Sent: Monday, May 09, 2011 11:28 AM
>   Subject: Re: [Harp-L] Just what exactly is 'key'?
>
>
>   Hi Doug
>
>   I don't have a definition for the term. All the definitions that I am
> aware
>   of are of little use to me. I avoid use of the term and begrudgingly use
>   it when forced to by circumstance.
>
>   Cheers!
>
>   >
>   > What is your definition of key?
>   >
>   > Doug H
>