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Downbeat
01
the first beat of a measure, typically emphasized in terms of accentuation and providing a sense of rhythmic stability
What is a "downbeat"?
A downbeat is the first beat of a musical measure and is typically the strongest or most emphasized beat. It marks the start of a new measure and often provides a sense of stability and grounding within the music. In a time signature like 4/4, the downbeat occurs on the first beat of each measure. Musicians often use the downbeat as a reference point to keep time and structure their rhythms.
Examples
The conductor's vigorous gesture marked the downbeat, signaling the orchestra to begin playing.
Jazz drummers often accentuate the downbeat with a powerful stroke on the bass drum, anchoring the rhythm of the ensemble.
Lexical Tree
downbeat
down
beat
