Understanding the 6/8 Time Signature with Interactive Examples
6/8 time is a
compound time signature* with six eighth notes per measure, grouped into
two sets of three, which is counted as
“1-2-3-4-5-6”. Even though there are six
divisions, we feel it as two beats. This creates a lilting, rolling feel,
often used in folk and classical, but can be found in many modern genres as
well.
🎥 You can watch a
companion video about 6/8 time here.
Also check out this page for more about the
4/4 time signature.
* Compound time signatures have beats which are divided into three equal parts, creating a triplet feel within each beat.
6/8 vs 3/4 Time Signature
Both 6/8 and 3/4 time have six eighth notes per measure, but they feel different.
In 3/4, the emphasis is on three quarter notes (1-2-3), giving a straightforward feel. In 6/8, the emphasis is on two groups of three (1-2-3-4-5-6). This is an important distinction which can be confusing at first.
6/8 vs 4/4 Time Signature
4/4 time (also known as common time) divides each measure into four quarter notes (1-2-3-4), creating a steady rhythm used in most pop, rock, and EDM.
In contrast, 6/8's triplet feel (1-2-3-4-5-6) adds a unique, flowing texture. Two measures of 6/8 can also feel like one measure of a slow 4/4 with triplets.
Audio Examples
The following audio files feature a single eight-bar composition in three different time signatures. Listen to each version and try counting along to feel the differences. Switch back and forth between them to explore how the time signatures affect the overall feel.
Time Signature Visualization: 6/8, 4/4 & 3/4 Time
This interactive tool represents two seconds of time divided into 6, 4, and 3 beats, shown as concentric rings. By selecting a time signature, a rhythm track plays, highlighting the polyrhythm from that perspective.
You can toggle the rings on and off by clicking them and disable the rhythm track entirely if needed. The rings pulse with color based on their time signature: three pulses for 3/4, four pulses for 4/4, and two pulses for 6/8.
Explore different combinations to understand the relationship between rhythms and time signatures!
(Settings can only be adjusted while the audio is paused)
