Crotchet
A note lasting one beat in common time, equivalent to a quarter note in American terminology.
Category
rhythm
Pronunciation
/ˈkrɒtʃɪt/
Origin
Old French (croche, hook)
Length
192 words · 1 min read
About Crotchet
The crotchet is one of the most commonly encountered note values in Western music. In 4/4 time, four crotchets fill a complete bar, making it the standard unit of beat in most common-time signatures.
More rhythm terms
Compound time
View all rhythmterms →Time signatures in which each beat subdivides naturally into three equal parts.
PolyrhythmThe simultaneous use of two or more conflicting rhythmic patterns
OffbeatAny beat or subdivision that falls between the main beats of a bar, often used for rhythmic interest and lift.
AnacrusisOne or more notes that precede the first full bar of a piece, functioning as an upbeat or pickup.
TripletA group of three notes played in the time normally occupied by two notes of the same value.
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