At the beginning of each piece of music, after the treble clef, is the time signature.
The time signature indicates the number of beats per bar (the top number) and the type of note receiving one beat (the bottom number). For example:
Thus in * time there must be the equivalent of 4 quarter note beats per bar, e.g.
* is the most common time signature and is sometimes represented by this symbol called common time.
The other frequently used time signature is ^ time.
^ indicates 3 quarter note beats per bar, e.g.
* time has a "march" feel and ^ time has a "waltz" feel.
When counting * time, accent (play louder) the first and third beats i.e.
In * time, accent the first beat only. i.e.: