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Lesson Fourteen: New Notes, Chords, and Time Signatures

Triplets

A triplet eighth-note symbol is equal to 1 quarter note. It is counted 1-and-a, 1-and-a, etc.

The below rhythm, a triplet followed by a quarter note, would be counted 1-and-a 2, 1-and-a-2, etc.

Fact: Any major triad can be changed into a minor triad by lowering the middle note of the chord 1 half-step.

Time Signatures

There are two other time signatures you should be familiar with: 3/8 and 6/8.

3/8 time signature: 3 beats to the measure; the eighth note gets one beat.

6/8 time signature: 6 beats to the measure; the eighth note gets one beat.

Arpeggiated Chords

When a wavy line is placed beside a chord, that chord is arpeggiated, which means rolled, or broken. You would first play the lowest note, then the middle note, then the top note. And you would do it fairly quickly and smoothly. Or at least try to. :)

Lesson Fifteen: More New Notes and Chords

Emily Sigers
emily@thepianopages.com