C clef

The C clef, a symbol in musical notation, is used to indicate the pitch of notes on a musical staff. It is a stylized form of the letter C and is known as a movable clef because its position can change. The C clef's primary function is to establish the location of middle C on the staff.

Historically, the C clef has been used in various positions, including the alto clef, where middle C is on the middle line, and the tenor clef, where middle C is on the second line from the top. These positions are often used for specific instruments like the viola (alto clef) or cello and bassoon (tenor clef). While less common today than the treble and bass clefs, the C clef remains important for certain instrumental and vocal ranges.12