• Time Signature Calculator

    Calculate beats per measure, note values, measure length, and tempo information for any time signature.

    4/4
    Common time
    Beats Per Measure
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    Beat Value
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    BPM
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    Measure Length
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    Measures / Minute
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    Quarter-Note Equiv.
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    Beat Pattern

    How it works: The top number tells you how many beats or counting units are in each measure. The bottom number tells you which note value represents one beat.

    For example, 4/4 contains four quarter-note beats per measure, while 6/8 contains six eighth-note beats. However, 6/8 is commonly felt as two groups of three eighth notes rather than six completely equal beats.

    Common Time Signatures

    4/4 Common time — four quarter-note beats
    3/4 Waltz feel — three quarter-note beats
    2/4 Two quarter-note beats
    6/8 Compound duple — often felt as 2 groups of 3
    9/8 Compound triple — often felt as 3 groups of 3
    12/8 Compound quadruple — often felt as 4 groups of 3
    5/4 Asymmetrical — often grouped 3 + 2 or 2 + 3
    7/8 Asymmetrical — commonly grouped 2 + 2 + 3
    11/8 Odd meter — several possible groupings
    A free music theory tool for songwriters, musicians, producers, and music students.