How to count 3/4
Three quarter notes per bar: "1-2-3", with the weight on 1. In fast waltzes the bar is felt almost in one: one strong pulse and two light ones.
Where you hear it
Waltzes, mazurkas, minuets, many folk songs and ballads.
Practice tip
If you lose track of the downbeat, keep a strong accent on 1 and lower beats 2 and 3. For fast waltzes, try setting the metronome to half speed and feeling it in one.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between 3/4 and 6/8?
Both contain six eighth notes, but 3/4 groups them 2+2+2 (three beats) and 6/8 groups them 3+3 (two beats).
What tempo is a waltz?
It depends on the style: a slow waltz can sit around 90 quarter notes per minute and a Viennese waltz above 170.