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How to Count a Triplet in Music

Counting triplets can be a challenge in learning music, due to the misconception that a triplet simply reflects three beats. A triplet refers to three beats that are evenly spaced, forming a steady rhythm and occurring within two counts of music. While there are established methods to counting triplets, you could also opt to develop your own, using the standard methods as inspiration.

Things You'll Need

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Instructions

    • 1

      Practice tapping out the beats in the rhythm to reinforce the notes and make it easier to discern both visually and audibly.

    • 2

      Read through the music to pick out any noted triplets, typically referenced by a "3" written over a sequence of notes.

    • 3

      Select certain words or phrases to say to the beat of the triplet to help you identify and count the triplet. Over-enunciate the word, "Triplet," to the three beats of the triplet by saying, "Trip-ah-let," to the three beats.

    • 4

      Incorporate numbers into the counting to help you count the triplet even more clearly. Count the triplet by saying, "One triplet, two triplet, three triplet," with each syllable in the words assigned to a beat in the triplet.

    • 5

      Create your own system or phrase for counting the triplets that is comfortable for you and easy to remember. Assign a syllable to each beat in the triplet that allows you to develop a clear rhythm. For example, "Count-ing one, count-ing two, count-ing three."

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