Compound Time Signatures - Understanding 6/8 and Beyond
Most musicians start by learning 4/4 or 3/4 time. These are simple time signatures. But what happens when the beat itself is divided into three instead of two? That's when we enter the world of compound time signatures.
Simple vs. Compound
In Simple Time (like 2/4, 3/4, 4/4), the beat divides into two equal parts (DA-ba, DA-ba). In Compound Time, the beat divides into three equal parts (DA-ba-da, DA-ba-da).
- 6/8 (Compound Duple): Two main beats, each divided into three.
- 9/8 (Compound Triple): Three main beats, each divided into three.
- 12/8 (Compound Quadruple): Four main beats, each divided into three.
The 6/8 Misconception
New students often try to count 6/8 as "one, two, three, four, five, six." This is technically correct but musically wrong. You should feel it in two: "ONE-and-a, TWO-and-a."
Why Use Compound Time?
Compound time gives music a "lilt" or a "rolling" feel. It’s the sound of a carousel, a traditional jig, or a swaying ballad. It feels more organic and less "square" than 4/4 time.
Identifying the Beat
To find the number of beats in a compound signature, divide the top number by 3.
Example: 6 / 3 = 2 beats. The beat unit is a dotted quarter note.
Hearing it in Action
Listen to "We Are The Champions" by Queen or "Perfect" by Ed Sheeran. Both use 12/8 or 6/8 feels to create that rhythmic swaying motion. Once you recognize the "triplet heartbeat," you'll start hearing compound time everywhere!