A triplet is a group of three notes played in the same time as two notes of the same kind. As an example, eighth note triplets involve playing 3 eighth notes in the same time as you would normally play 2 eighth notes (1 beat):
played in the same time as
In this example the eighth note triplets are worth one third of a beat each. You should always accent the first note of each triplet group.
The triplet indication 3 must be placed either above or below the triplet group.
Here is a comparison between quarter notes (1 beat), eighth notes 1/2 beat) and eighth note triplets 1/3 beat):
Play this scale study very slowly until you pick up the "feel" of the triplet rhythm. Remember to accent the first note of each group, and observe again the fingering used (bars 4 — 5) in order to facilitate the high notes.
The next two songs both involve the use of triplets.