8th Note Rhythm Reading
Rhythm is the pattern of sounds and silences arranged over musical time. In standard notation, the different states of rhythm are shown with symbols.
Terms
Beat: The pulse of the music.
Subdivision: An equal division of the beat.
Attack: The beginning of a note.
Sustain: The continuation of a note as it rings.
Release: The end of a note.
Rest: A period of musical time without a note.
Click on the images below to learn how to decode the symbols for eighth note rhythms. Click on the practice page buttons to apply your understanding to examples. When your finished, take the the EIGHTH NOTE READING QUIZ.
1 | Eighth Notes & Rests
One eighth count of sound or silence.
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2 | Ties
Turns the connected note into a sustain.
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3 | Quarter Notes
Two eighth counts of sound.
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4 | Quarter Rests
Two eighth counts of silence.
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5 | Dotted Quarter Notes
Three eighth counts of sound.
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6 | Dotted Quarter Rests
Three eighth counts of silence.
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7 | Half Notes
Four eighth counts of sound.
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8 | Half Rests
Four eighth counts of silence.
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9 | Dotted Half Values
Six eighth counts of sound or silence.
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10 | Whole Values
Eight eighth counts of sound or silence.
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