Introducing the Sharp, Natural and Flat Signs

The "Flat" symbol (b) affects the note it appears beside by lowering the note by one semi-tone. For example, the white note "D" appears in between the two black notes across the keyboard. "Db" is the first black note (to the left or) downwards. The "Natural" sign affects the note it appears beside by essentially 'cancelling' the previous manipulation by either sharps or flats. This may be different when considering the Key Signature, as explained in the next section.