Dotted Rhythms
We can use dotted rhythms to extend the value of a note. A Dot (.) added to a note adds 1/2 of the value of the previous note. For example, a Dotted Half Note would be held for 3 beats, while a Dotted Quarter note would equal 1.5 beats. Observe the following examples of each of these dotted notes.
A Dotted Half Note adds the value of a Quarter Note (1 beat) to the Half Note (2 Beats) equaling a total of 3 beats for the Dotted Half Note.
A Dotted Quarter Note adds the value of a Eighth Note (1/2 beat) to the Quarter Note (1 Beat) equaling a total of 1.5 beats for the Dotted Quarter Note.
It is important to note that a Dotted Quarter Note is equal to a Quarter Note tied to an Eighth Note. Although they are written differently, they have the same note value, but are often used in different situations, such as holding a note across a bar line.
A Dotted Quarter Note is equal to a Quarter Note tied to an Eighth Note.
Exercise 1 - Rhythms with Dotted Half Notes and Dotted Quarter Notes
Exercise 2 - Rhythms with Dotted Half Notes, Dotted Quarter Notes and Dotted Eighth Notes.
