Simple time

Definition

The music has two, three or four beats in each bar, and each beat is a crotchet (1 beat note) and each beat can be divided into 2. If you try saying the word 'sim-ple' in each beat, and it fits with the notes, then you are listening to simple time.

Example of simple time and its groupings

Simple time signatures are written as 2/4, 3/4 and 4/4. 4/4 can also be written as C, which stands for 'common time'.

Time signatures for 2, 3 and 4 beats in the bar, in simple time

Examples

Watch the accordionist's foot and how the word 'sim-ple' fits within each beat.

'Sim-ple' still fits this modern song.

Related concepts

• 2, 3 or 4 beats in the bar (N3 & N3 Tech)
• Compound time (N4 & N4 Tech)