When students are first learning 3/4 time signature, for many it can be a challenge—even a struggle. 3 beats to a bar is different, strange even if you aren’t used to it. For most young music students, by the time we get to it, we are just getting the hang of 4 beats to a bar! The odd nature isn’t just different for counting and a new note (the dotted half note), but it feels very different too.

I like to suggest students go home and listen to some music in 3 to get the feel for it, and this can be a wonderful opportunity for the whole family to get involved. Even if you do not read music or play music, you can count to three. Find some great songs in 3/4, put them on, and try to find the beat, now count. 1, 2, 3—1,2,3, etc. Maybe teach your kids the waltz!

You might start with a song they know, how about the National Anthem? The first two notes are actually pick up notes (3+), beat one starts on the lyric “say.” How about Someday My Prince Will Come? Though this is my favorite recording of that song. How about Rainbow Connection? Here’s another great version of that tune (by Willie Nelson).

You may be familiar with Be Thou My Vision which is an old Irish hymn in 3/4 worth listening to and counting as well.

What other great songs do you know in 3?