How to Count in a 3/2 Time Signature

The 3/2 time signature indicates there are three half notes in every measure. While it is similar to the 3/4 time signature used in waltzes, the 3/2 time signature is meant to be performed more slowly. The main pulse in most 3/4 musical compositions is felt on beat one, but all three pulses in 3/2 are meant to be played deliberately, with the first beat slightly emphasized. When counting in 3/2, remember each beat is represented by a half note, not a quarter note.

Instructions

1. • 1

     Count "One, Two, Three" for each half note in the measure.

   • 2

     Count quarter notes in 3/2 as you would count eighth notes in 3/4. Six quarter notes in a measure are to be counted as "One And Two And Three And."

   • 3

     Count whole notes for two beats. A whole note followed by a half note should be counted as "One (two) Three."

   • 4

     Count eighth notes as you would count sixteenth notes in 3/4. A half note followed by four eighth notes followed by two quarter notes should be counted as "One Two-ee-and-uh Three And."