Rhythm Terminology

Front

Simple Time

Back

A metre in which the main beat can be subdivided into two

Front

Compound Time

Back

A metre in which the main beat can be subdivided into three

Front

Regular

Back

Music with 2, 3 or 4 pulses per bar is called “regular“

Front

Anacrusis

Back

One or more weak-beat notes before the first strong beat of a phrase, often called a ‘pick up’ in pop music

Front

Allegro

Back

Brisk speed

Front

Andante

Back

Moderately slow tempo

Front

Largo

Back

Slow, dignified style

Front

Lento

Back

Slow tempo

Front

Grave

Back

Slow and solemn

Front

Presto

Back

Quick tempo