Meter/Time Signature

Is there a pattern to the underlying beat?

No: Free Time

Yes:

Number of beats per measure

1

2: Duple

3: Triple

4: Duple

5

etc.

 

Number of parts into which each beat is divided

2: Simple

3: Compound

4: Simple

5

etc.

Hybrid Possibilities:

• simultaneous use (or regular alternation) of two or more different meters: Polymeter
• division of each measure into multiple, dissimilar, beat units: Asymmetrical Rhythm