Level 1 — Sit Down & Play

Four Counts in a Measure

Feel 4/4 — four counts per measure, quarter note gets one count.

Four Counts in a Measure

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Lesson script

A time signature tells how many beats in a measure and what kind of note gets one count. Common time (4/4 or a C symbol) means 1-2-3-4, and the quarter note gets one count.

Count out loud while playing C major on beat 1 only, then on all four beats. Switch to a waltz feel later (1-2-3) just to hear the difference.

Done when: you can play a chord on beat 1 for four measures without rushing.

Instrument paths

  • Piano: C chord in steady 4; then F and G.
  • Strings: Bow or pluck on beat 1 only.
  • Percussion: Downbeat stronger, other beats softer.

Learning modes

  • Solo child: Child counts aloud while playing.
  • Child + parent: Parent counts; child plays; swap roles.
  • Family: Conductor family: one conducts 4, others play on cue.