Compound time

by Ateru Arim
(Betio, Tarawa, Kiribati)

What is the correct beat to use in a 6/8 time?

Comments for Compound time

Average Rating starstarstarstarstar

Click here to add your own comments

Jan 06, 2015
Rating
starstarstarstarstar
How to count beats in 6/8 time
by: Simon

Hi,

As 6/8 is a compound time signature (as you have rightly said) it means the beats are dotted notes. 6/8 is compound duple so technically you should count 2 Dotted Quarter Notes (Dotted Crotchets) in each bar. Each of these can be divided into 3 Eighth Notes (Quavers).

However, if it is a new or slower piece many people prefer to count 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6 where there is an accent on the bold numbers.

It is often a good idea to count like this to start with then move into counting 2 in a bar (this would just be the 1 and the 4 above) as this helps the music flow better.

Remember that because the beat is an Eighth Note (Quaver) that this will be worth 1 count, a Quarter Note (Crotchet) 2 counts and a Dotted Quarter Note (Dotted Crotchet) 3 counts. See the Rhythm Tree page for more guidance on the relative values of notes.

Click here to add your own comments

Join in and write your own page! It's easy to do. How? Simply click here to return to Music Theory Questions.

A Clear Path To Learning Music Theory

essential music theory book learn to read music

For more help check out my new theory book Essential Music Theory: Learn To Read And Appreciate Music Vol. 1 available for iPad and Mac OS.

  • A simple step-by-step course that takes you from complete beginner to grade 2 music theory
  • Multi-faceted learning - audio, video, mind maps, clear musical examples 
  • Built in quizzes to check your understanding

Click here for more information.

Or get it on the iBooks Store!