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As a musician, understanding time signatures is essential to playing music accurately and in the correct rhythm. A 6/8 time signature is a common time signature that musicians use in many genres of music, including rock, blues, jazz, etc.
This article will explore what a 6/8 time signature is, how to count it, and more.
Table of Contents
Definition of time signature
A time signature is a musical notation that represents the rhythm of a piece of music. It is written as two numbers stacked vertically, with the top number indicating the number of beats per measure and the bottom number indicating the type of note that represents one beat.
For example, a 4/4 time signature means there are four beats per measure, and a quarter note represents one beat.
In a 6/8 time signature, there are six beats per measure, and an eighth note represents one beat. This means that each measure is divided into six equal parts, with each part represented by an eighth note. It is also known as a compound duple meter, meaning that it has two beats per measure, each beat divided into three equal parts.
How to count 6/8 time signatures?
When it comes to how to count 6/8 time signature, it is important to first understand the concept of a compound meter. In a compound meter, the beats are subdivided into three parts, rather than the usual two parts in a simple meter. This means that each beat is felt as a triplet, with three equal parts per beat.
To count a 6/8 time signature, you would count “1-trip-let, 2-trip-let” for each measure. Remember, as stated before, that in a 6/8 time signature, there are two beats per measure, and each beat is divided into three equal parts.
Playing 6/8 time signature on the guitar
Once you know how to count 6/8 time signature, you can start playing songs in 6/8 on the guitar. Playing 6/8 time signatures on the guitar can be a bit tricky, as it requires a different approach to rhythm than a simple time signature. The key is to feel the rhythm and let it guide your playing, this is where proper ear training comes in handy.
To start, it is helpful to practice counting out loud while playing. This will help you internalize the rhythm and ensure that you are playing in time. As you become used to the beat, start with a lower pace and gradually pick up the tempo.
When playing a chord progression in a 6/8 time signature, it is important to emphasize the first beat of each measure. You can do this by playing a slightly louder strum or accenting the first note of the chord. You could also try listening to songs in 6/8 time signature to understand better how it sounds.
6/8 time signature song examples
Many popular songs use 6/8 time signatures. Here are some good 6/8 time signature examples:
- “House of the Rising Sun” by Animals
- “Breaking the Girl” by Red Hot Chili Peppers
- “Lights” by Journey
- “Baby’s in Black” by The Beatles
- “She’s Always a Woman” by Billy Joel
Listening to and analyzing these songs can help you better understand how the 6/8 time signature is used in different genres of music.
Advanced techniques for playing 6/8 time signature on the guitar
Once you have a solid grasp of playing in 6/8 time signature, there are several advanced techniques you can use to add interest and complexity to your playing.
One technique is to use syncopation, which involves accenting the off-beats or playing notes in between beats. This can create a more complex and interesting rhythm that musicians commonly use in funk and R&B.
Another technique is to use arpeggios or fingerpicking patterns rather than strumming chords. This can create a more intricate and melodic rhythm that musicians typically use in folk and acoustic music.
Bottom line
6/8 time signature may seem daunting at first, but with practice, it can become a natural part of your playing. Remember to feel the rhythm and let it guide you, and don’t be afraid to experiment with advanced techniques to add interest and complexity to your playing.
Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced musician, understanding 6/8 time signatures can help you improve your playing and expand your musical repertoire. So pick up your guitar, start counting, and let the music take you on a journey.
What are your favorite songs that use 6/8 time signatures? Have you tried playing in 6/8?
