Notation & reading
Time signature
A time signature is a pair of numbers showing how many of a given note value fill a bar; their grouping indicates the metre and main beats.
The upper number counts the note values named by the lower number, 4 means quarter notes (crotchets), 8 means eighth notes (quavers). In simple metre, 3/4 has three quarter-note beats per bar. In compound metre, 6/8 has six eighth notes normally grouped into two dotted-quarter beats, each divided in three. The same total of six eighth notes can therefore be grouped as 2 + 2 + 2 in 3/4 or 3 + 3 in 6/8.
Common time, the C symbol, means 4/4; the same symbol with a vertical stroke means cut time, or 2/2, where the half note takes the beat. Reading the metre correctly before playing a note is what makes a rhythm feel right rather than merely be correct.
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Compare 3/4 and 6/8 by clapping
Both bars can contain six eighth notes (quavers), but their normal grouping differs. Clap every syllable below and stress the capitalized numbers.
3/4: ONE and TWO and THREE and 6/8: ONE la li TWO la li
In 3/4, three quarter-note beats each divide into two eighth notes: 2 + 2 + 2. In 6/8, two dotted-quarter beats each divide into three eighth notes: 3 + 3. If you keep the eighth notes equally spaced, the bar lengths match but the accents move.
Check your understanding
In a normal 6/8 bar, how many main beats are there, and which note value represents each main beat?
Show answer and explanation
Two main beats, each a dotted quarter note (dotted crotchet). Each contains three eighth notes, so the two beats account for all six eighth notes in the bar.
A common mix-up
The upper number does not always count the main beats. In compound metres such as 6/8, 9/8 and 12/8, it counts the subdivisions: normally two, three or four main beats respectively. Very slow music may be counted in smaller units.
Related terms
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