What is 12-8?

12/8 time signature is a compound duple meter.

• Meaning: In 12/8 time, there are 12 eighth notes in each measure, and the beat is felt in groups of three eighth notes. This creates four main beats per measure (Beat%20Emphasis).
• Compound Meter: It's considered a compound meter because the main beats are divisible by three. Each of the four beats is a dotted quarter note long.
• Feeling: The overall feel is often described as flowing, lilting, or dance-like. It's commonly used in waltzes, blues, and rock music, although it shouldn't be confused with 3/4 waltz time.
• Counting: You would typically count it as "1-2-3, 2-2-3, 3-2-3, 4-2-3".
• Similar Time Signatures: It shares similarities with 6/8 time, but 12/8 feels broader with four strong beats per measure, as opposed to 6/8's two. (Time%20Signatures)
• Notation: A 12/8 time signature is written as a "12" over an "8" at the beginning of a piece of music.