The tuning systems were not always reliable during the Baroque period. Why did composers use key signatures?

Question

(1 point)
Responses

to encourage use of percussion
to encourage use of percussion
to avoid harsh-sounding keys
to avoid harsh-sounding keys
to avoid creating harmonies in a piece
to avoid creating harmonies in a piece
to encourage use of opera

Answer 1

Composers during the Baroque period used key signatures primarily to avoid harsh-sounding keys. Key signatures were an important tool for establishing the tonality of a piece, which helped ensure a more harmonious sound given the tuning inconsistencies of the time.