Figure 1.19

“Common Time” and “Cut Time”

“Common Time” and “Cut Time,” are slang terms. Other names for “Cut Time” are
“March Time” and the proper name,

Alla Breve

.

The Time Signature Table

The characteristics of individual time signatures are perceived in multiple layers
that can be reduced to three basic levels:

1. The prevailing background

Pulse

or beat.

2.

First Division

: the level wherein we determine if the pulse divides into

two equal portions (simple meter) or three equal portions (compound
meter).

3.

Subdivisions

: how First Division values subdivide into proportionally

smaller values.

Therefore, we can graph time signatures using the following table.

Table 1.1 Time Signature Table

Pulse

(The fundamental background pulse.)

First Division (The level determining pulse division into two portions or three portions.)

Subdivisions (Subsequent divisions into smaller values.)

Figure 1.20

Time Signature Table Example

Use this table to map out time signatures and their component organizational
layers.

Chapter 1 The Elements of Rhythm: Sound, Symbol, and Time

1.2 Pulse, Tempo, and Meter

24