Compound time
Time signatures in which each beat subdivides naturally into three equal parts.
Category
rhythm
Origin
English
Length
193 words · 1 min read
About Compound time
In compound time, the main beats of the bar each divide into three rather than two subdivisions. The most common compound time signature is 6/8, which has two dotted-crotchet beats per bar, each subdividing into three quavers.
More rhythm terms
Metre
View all rhythmterms →The recurring pattern of strong and weak beats that organises music into regular groups.
Dotted NoteA note followed by a dot, which increases its duration by half its original value.
BeatThe basic unit of time in music — the regular pulse a listener feels
CrotchetA note lasting one beat in common time, equivalent to a quarter note in American terminology.
AnacrusisOne or more notes that precede the first full bar of a piece, functioning as an upbeat or pickup.
Synonyms
Antonyms
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v1 · 10/04/2026Browse all terms →