subdivision

[ English ]

Definition

To break up a larger metrical pattern into smaller parts so that it may be more easily understood.

For example, in simple meter, the beat may be divided by 2 creating twice as many beats in the measure. That is to say, in common time, four quarter notes (crotchet ) would be given two beats each so there would be eight beats in the measure.

In compound meter, the beat may be divided by 3 creating three times as many beats in the measure. That is to say, in 6/8 meter, 2 dotted quarter notes would be given three beats each so there would be six beats in the measure.

Last Updated: 2016-06-19 18:10:19