quadruple time

music

Also known as: quadruple metre

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Last updated

July 13, 2026

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In music, quadruple time, also known as four-four time or common time, is a rhythmic meter marked by four beats per measure. The top number in the time signature, typically a 4, indicates the number of beats in each measure, while the bottom number, also a 4, signifies that a quarter note receives one beat. This means each measure contains the equivalent of four quarter notes. Cut time, or alla breve, is another form of quadruple time where the beat is represented by a half note.1234

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metre
(3/4, 3/8), or quadruple (4/4, 4/8). Compound metres are also duple (6/8, 6/16), triple (9/8), or quadruple (12/8) but have time signatures that indicate the number of beats to be a multiple of three. Thus, in 6/8,
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(3/4, 3/8), or quadruple (4/4, 4/8). Compound metres are also duple (6/8, 6/16), triple (9/8), or quadruple (12/8) but have time signatures that indicate the number of beats to be a multiple of three. Thus, in 6/8,
Read More