7/8 Time Signature Metronome
Allegro
7/8: 7 beats per bar in groups of 2+2+3, counted 1 2 · 3 4 · 5 6 7.
7/8 has seven eighth notes per bar, split into uneven groups such as 2+2+3. The short and long beats give it a limping, dance-like feel.
How to count 7/8
For 2+2+3 count 1 2 | 1 2 | 1 2 3, or say quick-quick-slow. The accents fall on the first eighth of each group. Type 7/8 3+2+2 or 7/8 2+3+2 in the rhythm pill to move the long group.
Where you hear 7/8
Bulgarian rachenitsa (2+2+3), Greek kalamatianos (3+2+2), Macedonian folk dances, and progressive rock and metal. In Balkan music the meter is a dance step, not a puzzle.
Questions
How do you count 7/8?
Split the seven eighths into groups of two and three, most often 2+2+3, and count 1 2 1 2 1 2 3 with an accent at the start of each group.
What is the difference between 7/8 and 7/4?
7/8 counts eighth notes and is usually quick, with uneven groups. 7/4 counts quarter notes, as in Money by Pink Floyd, and often feels like 4+3.
Which grouping should I use?
Use the grouping of your piece. 2+2+3 is the most common in Bulgarian music; 3+2+2 is the Greek kalamatianos.