What is a dotted half note?

A dotted half note is a musical note with a duration of three beats in 4/4 time signature. It is equivalent to three half notes or six quarter notes. The note is represented by a half note with a small dot placed next to it, which increases the duration of the note by half of its original value. In terms of counting, a dotted half note is typically held for the duration of three beats or three counts. It is commonly found in slower tempo music and is often used to create a sense of tension or anticipation in a musical phrase.