Meter
Definition
Meter refers to how beats are organized into recurring patterns in music. It determines the rhythmic structure and feel of a piece.
Analogy
Think of meter as the heartbeat of a song. Just like how our heartbeats have a regular pattern, meter gives music its pulse and rhythm.
Related terms
Time Signature: The time signature is a symbol placed at the beginning of a piece that indicates the meter by specifying the number of beats per measure and which note value gets one beat.
Duple Meter: Duple meter has two beats per measure, with emphasis on the first beat. It creates a strong and steady feeling.
Triple Meter: Triple meter has three beats per measure, with emphasis on the first beat. It creates a waltz-like or dance-like feeling.
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