Home - Fundamentals of Rhythm Table of Contents
Lesson 4: Eighth Notes and Eighth Rests How to Subdivide the Beat
Lessons 1 through 3 have explained note values that are at least one beat in duration. However, there are several note values which are shorter than one beat. When we play notes that are shorter than a beat, we are subdividing the beat.
Eighth Notes
The first subdivision that we will learn is the eighth note, which divides a quarter note beat into two equal parts.
Single eighth notes look similar to quarter notes, but they have a flag which extends from the stem of the note. When eighth notes occur on or above the middle staff line, the stem usually extends downward.
Eighth notes that occur in groups of two or four are connected at the end of each stem with a beam.
The eighth note is equal to half the length of a quarter note. Therefore, a quarter note is equal to two eighth notes tied together. Here are examples of the note values we have learned so far, and how many tied eighth notes they equal.
One quarter note equals two tied eighth notes:
One half note equals four tied eighth notes:
One dotted half note equals six tied eighth notes:
One whole note equals eight tied eighth notes:
When we subdivide the beat into two equal parts, we call the second half of each beat “and.” The word “and” is most easily abbreviated with the “+” sign.
Eighth Rests
Just as the eighth note is equal to half of a quarter note, the eighth rest is equal to half of a quarter rest. It consists of one slanted line with a flag attached at the top, as shown below.
When we clap and count rhythms that subdivide the beat, it is very important to count every subdivision or “and” to make sure that we keep a steady beat and perform the rhythms accurately. If you are practicing music that includes eighth notes, always count “and” on the second half of each beat, even in sections where there are no eighth notes.
When you first practice the rhythm patterns in this lesson, try using a duple subdivision metronome like the one found on www.MetronomeBot.com. The metronome produces a high click sound on the beat, and a low click sound on the second half of each beat. When you are comfortable with the eighth notes, try using a standard metronome that clicks on every beat.
Learn dotted quarter notes in Lesson 5.
Write your own rhythms and music compositions! Get free blank staff paper at www.music-paper.com.
Get the Book
Fundamentals of Rhythm book
If you would like all of this information in book format so that you can put it on your music stand and practice it wherever you go, get The Fundamentals of Rhythm, by Kyle Coughlin. The book includes all of the lesson information and practice exercises found on the website.
Use MetronomeBot for a fun online metronome!
The online metronome that counts the beat, subdivides, and offers encouraging practice tips.
If you like this site, please share it with others!
Like Kyle Coughlin Music on Facebook
Follow Kyle Coughlin Music on Twitter