Search
Common time
01
a musical meter with a 4/4 time signature, indicating four beats per measure
What is "common time"?
Common time is a musical term that refers to a time signature with four beats per measure, where each beat is represented by a quarter note. It is typically notated as 4/4 at the beginning of a piece of music. In common time, each measure, which is a segment of the music separated by bar lines, contains four beats, providing a regular and familiar rhythmic framework for musicians to follow and perform.
common time
n
Example
The pianist improvised a syncopated rhythm within the framework of common time, adding interest to the musical texture.
The piece transitioned seamlessly between different meters, alternating between common time and compound time signatures.
