Music Theory: Time Signatures
As previously mentioned, the notes are given specific values in which they are to be held in order for the melody to be recited. These notes are grouped together in a measure on the staff, divided by bars. A bar divides each measure and these divisions are given a sum value based on the time signature of that measure.
The most common time signature is its own namesake – common time or C. This time signature is known as 4/4 time or common time meaning that the measure contains four notes and each note value is a quarter note. The first number of the time signature defines how many beats are in the measure and the second number defines the value of those notes. Most contemporary pop, rock, blues, country, and R&B songs are in 4/4 time.
Another common time signature in music is 3/4 time. This means that there are three notes in each measure and each note is a quarter note value. (A complete measure would contain the equivalent of 3 quarter notes).
Cut time or 2/4 time is also common in music. This means that there are only two notes in each measure and that each note is given a quarter-note value. (A complete measure would contain the equivalent of 2 quarter notes).
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