Topmusicanswers
What is a beam note?
In musical notation, a beam is a horizontal or diagonal line used to connect multiple consecutive notes (and occasionally rests) to indicate rhythmic grouping. Only eighth notes (quavers) or shorter can be beamed.
What is the value of a beam note?
Beams are used to connect any similar notes with duration of less than a quarter note, as long as the notes are in the same unit within a measure. In instrumental music, beams are the preferred way of notating note values less than a quarter note.
What is the note with a beam called?
In music theory, notes with less rhythmic value than a quarter note, such as an eighth or sixteenth note, have “tails” attached to them. Connecting several notes with tails is what we call “beaming.” Beaming notes together is important because it makes sheet music significantly easier to read.
