Interactive rhythm tools are coming soon — for now, listen to music you love and feel the patterns described.
Different Counting
Listen to this music and count along:
Now this one:
The first makes you count to 4. The second to 3. That's the time signature.
▸ Read the full lesson as text
Interactive rhythm tools are coming soon — for now, listen to music you love and feel the patterns described.
Different Counting
Listen to this music and count along:
Now this one:
The first makes you count to 4. The second to 3. That's the time signature.
Common Time Signatures
4/4 - Most pop, rock, hip-hop (1-2-3-4)
3/4 - Waltzes (1-2-3)
6/8 - Irish jigs, ballads (1-2-3-4-5-6)
The top number tells you how many beats per measure. The bottom tells you what kind of note equals one beat.
Feel Different Meters
Tap or conduct along with music in different time signatures. 4/4 feels square and stable. 3/4 feels like swaying.
Identify Time Signatures
When you hear music, count along. If you naturally say '1-2-3-4' it's probably 4/4. If '1-2-3' it's 3/4.
Being able to identify time signature is a fundamental musicianship skill.