Time Signatures

Explore time signatures from simple duple to irregular odd meters. Each entry covers beat groupings, how to count, common genres, and example pieces. Whether you are learning to read music or working in unfamiliar meters, find the right time signature below. See also the rhythm patterns reference for note values and rhythmic techniques, and the tempo markings reference for speed indications.

Simple Time

2/2 Simple Duple · beats grouped 1+1 2/4 Simple Duple · beats grouped 1+1 3/4 Simple Triple · beats grouped 1+1+1 3/8 Simple Triple · beats grouped 1+1+1 4/4 Simple Quadruple · beats grouped 1+1+1+1 6/4 Simple Duple · beats grouped 3+3

Compound Time

6/8 Compound Duple · beats grouped 3+3 9/8 Compound Triple · beats grouped 3+3+3 12/8 Compound Quadruple · beats grouped 3+3+3+3

Irregular & Odd Meters

5/4 Irregular · beats grouped 3+2 5/8 Irregular · beats grouped 3+2 7/4 Irregular · beats grouped 4+3 7/8 Irregular · beats grouped 2+2+3

Historical Aliases

Cut Time (crossed C) Historical Alias · beats grouped 1+1 Common Time (C) Historical Alias · beats grouped 1+1+1+1

Related References

Rhythm Patterns Tempo Markings Free Metronome