What does the natural sign do in music notation?

The natural sign in music notation serves to cancel any previously applied sharps or flats on a note. When a natural sign is placed before a note, it indicates that the note should be played at its original pitch, without any alterations that sharps or flats would impose. For example, if a note is typically represented as a G sharp but a natural sign is added, it instructs the musician to play the G as it is, rather than as a sharp.

Understanding the role of the natural sign is essential for interpreting music accurately, especially when dealing with passages where notes might be frequently altered by accidentals. It helps to clarify the intended pitch in musical compositions, allowing for precise performances.