The Octave
Although there are only seven different letters in the musical alphabet, it is possible to find higher and lower versions of them at various places on the fretboard. The distance between any note and its next higher or lower repeat is called an octave. You already know two G notes – the open 3rd string and the third fret of the 1st string. These two G notes are an octave apart.
Note Summary
This example uses both G notes you have learned. Remember to alternate your fingers when crossing strings.
The Dotted Half Note
A dot after a note extends its value by half. A dot after a half note means that you hold it for three beats.
This duet makes use of all the notes and note values you have learned so far. Remember to count as you play and make sure that all your notes are clear and even. Take it slowly at first and then gradually increase the tempo (speed).
The Three Four Time Signature
This is the three four time signature. It tells you there are three beats in each bar. There are three quarter notes in one bar of ^ time.
The Tie
A tie is a curved line above or below two or more notes with the same position on the staff. It tells you to play the first note only, and to sustain it for the value of both notes. A tie may occur either across a bar line, or within one bar. The following song contains a tie in the final two bars as shown.
The Quarter Rest
A quarter rest indicates one beat of silence. Do not play any note. Remember that small counting numbers are placed under rests.
