Time Signature
A notational convention indicating how many beats are in each bar and which note value gets one beat
Category
rhythm
Pronunciation
TYM SIG-nah-chur
Origin
English
Length
111 words · 1 min read
About Time Signature
The time signature appears at the start of a piece as two stacked numbers. The upper number shows beats per bar; the lower number shows the note value of one beat (4 = crotchet, 8 = quaver).
More rhythm terms
Quaver
View all rhythmterms →A note lasting half a beat in common time, equivalent to an eighth note in American terminology.
MetreThe recurring pattern of strong and weak beats that organises music into regular groups.
Rubato (rhythm)A flexible approach to tempo in which some beats are slightly lengthened and others shortened for expressive effect.
PolyrhythmThe simultaneous use of two or more conflicting rhythmic patterns
OffbeatAny beat or subdivision that falls between the main beats of a bar, often used for rhythmic interest and lift.
Compare with similar terms
v1 · 09/04/2026Browse all terms →