How to count 12/8
Twelve eighth notes grouped in four threes. It feels like 4/4 with every beat split into triplets: “1-2-3, 2-2-3, 3-2-3, 4-2-3”.
Tempo in eighth notes
The tempo on this page counts eighth notes. If the score marks the dotted quarter, multiply by three.
Tip
To work on shuffle feel, let only the start of each group sound and play the triplets yourself.
Frequently asked questions
Is it the same as 4/4 with triplets?
It sounds almost the same. 12/8 is simply easier to write when the whole song is in triplets.