Cut Time
Definition
Cut time, represented by the symbol "C" with a vertical line through it, is a time signature of 2/2. It means that there are two half note beats per measure and each beat receives one count.
Analogy
Imagine driving on a highway where the speed limit is cut in half. Instead of driving at 60 miles per hour (4/4 time), you now drive at 30 miles per hour (cut time).
Related terms
Alla Breve: Alla breve is another term for cut time. It comes from Italian music notation and literally means "in the style of the breve."
Half Note Beat: In cut time, each beat is represented by a half note. This differs from common time where each beat is represented by a quarter note.
Double Meter: Double meter refers to having two beats per measure. Since cut time has two half note beats per measure, it can be considered double meter.
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