Common Time
Definition
Common time is represented by the symbol "C" and indicates a time signature of 4/4. It means that there are four quarter note beats per measure and each beat receives one count.
Analogy
Think of common time as being similar to walking at a regular pace with four steps for every complete cycle - left foot, right foot, left foot, right foot.
Related terms
Simple Meter: Simple meter refers to time signatures where each beat can be divided into two equal parts (e.g., 2/4, 3/4). Common time falls under this category.
Duple Meter: Duple meter is characterized by having two beats per measure. Since common time has four quarter note beats per measure, it can also be considered duple meter.
Quadruple Meter: Quadruple meter consists of four beats per measure. Common time is an example of quadruple meter.
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