Every time signature
Simple time, every beat
Learn these by heart
| Beat | Duple | Triple | Quadruple |
|---|---|---|---|
| minim | | | |
| crotchet | | | |
| quaver | | (new) |
In simple time each beat is a plain note that divides into two. The top number counts the beats; the bottom number says which note is the beat. New at Grade 4: , four quaver beats.
Quick check
How would you describe ?
Compound time, every beat
Learn these by heart
| Beat | Duple | Triple | Quadruple |
|---|---|---|---|
| dotted minim | (new) | (new) | |
| dotted crotchet | | | |
| dotted quaver | (new) | (new) | (new) |
In compound time each beat is a dotted note that divides into three: the top number is 6, 9 or 12. Divide it by 3 for the beats: has two dotted crotchet beats. Grade 4 adds dotted minim and dotted quaver beats.
Quick check
How would you describe ?
Remember
- Simple: top number 2, 3 or 4. Compound: 6, 9 or 12, divided by 3 for the beats.
- New: 4/8, 6/4, 9/4, 6/16, 9/16, 12/16.
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