Dotted 1/4 Notes

A dotted note is a note with a small dot after it. The dot changes the rhythmic value of the note by half of its original value.

What does that mean in English Mr. Claritan?

Easy. Let’s take a single note, a 1/4 note.

As we previously learned the 1/4 note gets 1 beat. No problem.

Now let’s add a dot to the 1/4 note. Remember our rule is the dot increases the note value by half.

If a 1/4 note = 1 beat then half of that is 1/2 beat, simple math.

From our previous lesson, we know that an 1/8 note = 1/2 a beat.

1 ( beat ) + 1/2 ( beat - the dot ) = 1 and 1/2 beats total.

A dotted 1/4 note = 1 and 1/2 beats.

Two written measures of 4/4 time signature including dotted 1/4 notes would look like this, and be counted as shown below.

Not to confuse the matter, but as we learned with ties, there is more than one way to write a rhythm. The same sounding rhythm above could be written using a tie.

From a sound perspective, there is no difference. One is easier for a musician to read than the other. You choose which one that is.

Mr. Claritan, can any note be dotted?

Yes, any Note or Rest can be dotted. Yes rests can also be dotted.

The rhythm above uses a dotted quarter rest. It is simple looking at it, but it creates a beat that has been used by drummers for years.

Here is your assignment. Start creating simple rhythm exercises using rests, ties, and dotted notes like this for yourself every day. The improvement will be amazing. Focus, work hard, be creative, and above all, experiment. You got this Music Claritans!!!

Take the tools you learn with Music Clarity and employ them in your music today, don’t wait. Learn how to use them, don’t just learn them, USE THEM, USE THEM, USE THEM!!!

Allow your dreams to become realities. Allow your songs to take on life.

🏗️ Rhythm / Dictation Exercises 2 - in process

🏗️ Dotted Half Notes and Ties - in process

🏗️ Rhythm / Dictation with melody

🏗️ The Breakdown Introduction

🏗️ Breakdown 1

🏗️ Breakdown 2a

🏗️ Breakdown 2b