Time Signatures and Playing Rhythms

In this lesson we apply the time signatures introduced in Volume 8 and write actual melodies on the staff. If you have not yet studied what a time signature means, start with the previous lesson linked below.

The upper number tells us how many units fit into a bar; the lower number tells us which note value represents one unit. In 4/4, the bar contains the equivalent of four quarter notes. Remember that the total duration may also be made up of smaller notes and rests.

If you need to review note values or rests, see the earlier lessons in this series. Now let's look at the first notated melody.

In the first example, the durations add up to four quarter-note beats per measure. Without a time signature it would be much harder to understand the meter and group the notes clearly.

Next, look at a melody in 2/2, or cut time. Each bar has the duration of two half notes. Compared with 4/4, it may feel broader when the half note is used as the main pulse, although the actual tempo determines the speed.

Now try 3/4, a meter commonly associated with the waltz. Count three quarter-note beats in each bar and notice the characteristic three-beat grouping.

Finally, look at 6/8. Each bar contains six eighth-note units; in many musical settings, they are grouped into two larger beats of three eighth notes each. Listen for this compound-meter feel and compare it with the earlier examples.

Practice counting aloud while playing each example. Understanding both the written durations and the felt beat will make reading and performing rhythms much easier.