Watch this video to learn about the time signature and note values: Whole notes, half notes, quarter motes and rests.
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The time signature is the two stacked numbers at the beginning of a piece of music. The top number tells us how many beats or counts per measure. By the way, a measure is a section of music on the staff between the vertical lines.
The bottom number tells us what kind of note receives one count or one beat. In the example 4/4 time, there are four beats in each measure and each count has a value of a quarter note; that means we will count “one, two, three, four” for each measure. This is also called “common time,” and we will be using this in all of our beginning examples.
Now let’s talk about the rhythm value of notes. The whole note, which looks like a circle or zero is held for four counts, or the whole measure. When the note is played, count: 1 2 3 4. Then release the note after you’ve said “4.”
The Half note looks similar to the whole note but has a vertical stem that could go up or down depending on where it is on the staff. The half note is held for two counts, or half of the measure. When the half note is played, count: “1, 2.”
Release the note after you’ve said “2.”
And the quarter note looks similar to the half note but the note “head” is filled in. The quarter note is held for one count or one quarter of the measure. Play the note, count “1,” then release the note.