Rhythm & Meter

Compound meter is a type of musical meter in which each primary beat divides naturally into three equal parts, commonly notated with time signatures such as 6/8, 9/8, or 12/8.

Simple meter is a type of musical meter in which each beat is divided into two equal parts. It is commonly notated with time signatures such as 2/4, 3/4, and 4/4, and forms the basis for many Western rhythmic structures.

In music, pulse is the underlying regular beat that provides a steady framework for rhythm, tempo, and meter. It is felt as the basic unit of time that listeners and performers use to stay synchronized.

Polyrhythm is the simultaneous combination of two or more contrasting rhythmic patterns. It appears in many musical traditions, from African drumming to modern progressive rock, and influences how listeners perceive rhythm and groove.

Odd meter, also called irregular or asymmetrical meter, refers to musical time signatures whose beats are grouped in uneven patterns, such as 5/4 or 7/8, creating a distinctive rhythmic feel.

A time signature is a notational convention that defines how many beats are in each measure and which note value receives one beat. It shapes the rhythmic feel of a piece and is a fundamental element of Western music notation.