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Triplets in simple time are groups of three notes that take the place of a typical unit of

two. For example, in 4/4 time, the typical division of the quarter beat is into two eighth notes.

Triplets are when three notes “squeeze” into the space of two. Going back to the “Fruit Salad”

idea from Section 2.9, adding the triplet eighth notes provides one more variation to the rhythmic

possibilities. Triplets are often counted with “1 + a,” just like in compound meter.

D. Exercises with triplets. Clap and count the following rhythms:

Now try the first two exercises above with the “Fruit Salad” method: quarters = pears; two

eighths = apples; triplets = cantaloupe; four sixteenths = watermelon. Perform with a robust

pulse for best results.