The tuning system were not always reliable during the baroque period why did composers use key signatures

Answer 1

During the Baroque period, the tuning system was not always reliable because the equal-tempered tuning system, which is commonly used today, had not yet been fully developed. Instead, composers were using various temperaments, such as just intonation or mean-tone temperament, which led to inconsistencies in the pitches of different keys.

To overcome these tuning problems, composers used key signatures as a way to indicate the tonal relationships within a piece of music. By notating the key signature at the beginning of a composition, composers were able to inform the performers about the specific tonalities and the intervals to be used in each key. This allowed musicians to adjust their instruments accordingly and navigate the piece more accurately.

Key signatures helped establish a harmonic framework and maintain consistency in pitch relationships within a piece, even if the overall tuning system was not entirely reliable. By using key signatures, composers could ensure that the intervals and harmonies they intended were maintained regardless of the specific tuning system being used.