A time signature placed at the beginning of a piece indicates its meter.. Unless we get other information, this meter is in effect for the duration of the piece. The time signature actually tells us three things: the meter, the unit of measure for each pulse, and whether we are in simple time or compound time. A time signature has an upper and lower number. In simple time signatures, the upper number relates directly to the meter: it is either a two, three, or four. The lower number tells us what note value receives the pulse or beat. The first time signature below, two-four, tells us that each measure will have two beats in a strong-weak pattern, and the quarter-note gets the beat. Three-two tells us that the piece is in a triple meter, strong-weak-weak pattern where the half-note gets the beat. And finally four-eight has four beats per measure with an eighth-note pulse.

Learn How to Read Music Notes

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A dotted music note increases the length of the note by one half. For instance, a dotted half note is worth 3 beats instead of 2. A tied note simply means you play the two notes as one. Enjoy this free video lesson to help your music reading! 

Here’s a great lesson to help you learn to read music – it’s especially helpful for piano players and people who want to learn how to play piano. This video covers the names of the keys on the piano ranging from C to B as well as natural notes and accidentals. Also covered is what’s called “odd meter” meaning time signature in music (5/8 for example) that is not the traditional even number  (such as 4/4).

There’s also a very helpful fingering chart to help piano players know where to place their hands when learning how to read music.

I play the piano, but know very little about reading music. I want to be able to play the really complicated classical pieces, which I know takes years of practice and dedication. I need a true pianist for this question. If I start learning to play by ONLY reading the sheet music, will progressive lessons get me to the point that I can play the Beethoven and Bach?
I play the piano, but know very little about reading music. I want to be able to play the really complicated classical pieces, which I know takes years of practice and dedication. I need a true pianist for this question. If I start learning to play by ONLY reading the sheet music, will progressive lessons get me to the point that I can play the Beethoven and Bach? I can already read music, but I’m limited. I took lessons as a kid and I remember alot of what I learned, but the way I play, I can read what I play on the treble clef but make up my own rhythms on the bass clef. I want to know if formal lessons will help me to look at a complicated piece of music and be able to play it at first glance.

Learning to Read Music