Written music is just like writing using a language. There are rules to follow, ways to make things clear, and even shortcuts to make for less work (like using a repeat sign!) We will be covering two basic fundamentals here which are use of measures and use of time signatures.
The video below gives an excellent introduction to the measure. There will be a certain number of measures in a song and each of them are numbered, usually at the beginning of the line it is on. Measures are a great way to section off music, making it easier to read and follow. Please watch the video below for a clear explanation.
The video below gives an excellent introduction to the measure. There will be a certain number of measures in a song and each of them are numbered, usually at the beginning of the line it is on. Measures are a great way to section off music, making it easier to read and follow. Please watch the video below for a clear explanation.
Here is the first of two time signatures that beginner musicians should know well. This time signature is written at the beginning of the song. This one is 3/4 time. The top number means there are 3 beats in each measure and the bottom number means that a quarter note equals one beat.
This is a 4/4 time signature. The top number means there are 4 beats in each measure and the bottom number means that a quarter note equals one beat.
The quicker a beginner musician learns the elementals and basics of the language of music, the faster they will be able to sight read and learn new music!