A clef is a musical symbol placed at the beginning of a staff to indicate the pitch of the notes. The most common types of clefs are the treble clef, which represents higher pitches, and the bass clef, which indicates lower pitches. Each clef assigns specific notes to the lines and spaces of the staff, helping musicians read and interpret music accurately. Clefs are essential for musicians, as they provide a framework for understanding the written music. Other clefs, such as the alto clef and tenor clef, are used for specific instruments, like the viola and trombone, respectively. These symbols ensure that musicians can play their parts correctly within an ensemble.