How to Count One Semiquaver, One Quaver, One Semiquaver in Music

Some rhythms add playfulness and groove to music by alternating short and long
notes within a single beat. One such rhythm is the semiquaver–quaver–semiquaver
pattern. It gives a beat a lively “bounce” that’s fun to play and listen to.

What Is This Rhythm?

This pattern is made up of:

• A semiquaver (short note)
• A quaver (longer note)
• Another semiquaver (short note)

Together, they fill one full beat in simple time.

• UK (British) name: Semiquaver – Quaver – Semiquaver
• US (American) name: Sixteenth Note – Eighth Note – Sixteenth Note

How the Beat Is Divided

In simple time:

• First semiquaver = ¼ of a beat
• Quaver = ½ of a beat
• Last semiquaver = ¼ of a beat

0.25 + 0.5 + 0.25 = 1 complete beat
This creates a short–long–short feel inside a single beat.

How It Looks on the Music Sheet

• The first semiquaver has two beams/flags
• The quaver in the middle has one beam/flag
• The last semiquaver also has two beams/flags
• All three are usually beamed together, showing they belong to the same
beat

This makes it easy for musicians to read and play with the correct timing.

How Long Does It Last? (Tempo Explained)

At 60 BPM (one crotchet = 1 second):

• Semiquaver = 0.25 sec
• Quaver = 0.5 sec
• Semiquaver = 0.25 sec
• Total = 1 second

At 120 BPM (one crotchet = 0.5 seconds):

• Semiquaver = 0.125 sec
• Quaver = 0.25 sec
• Semiquaver = 0.125 sec
• Total = 0.5 seconds

The rhythm keeps the same internal feel at any speed.

How It Feels When Played

This rhythm creates a light–heavy–light effect within a single beat. It gives music:
• Playfulness
• Rhythmic variety
• Subtle syncopation that shifts emphasis slightly

It’s often counted as “short–long–short” in syllable systems.

In Simple Time (4/4, 3/4, 2/4)

• Very common for syncopation and rhythmic interest
• Makes beats feel lively and less predictable

In Compound Time (6/8, 9/8, 12/8)

• Can appear across subdivisions
• Feels less natural because the beat is unevenly split
• Adds an interesting, off-kilter effect when used carefully

A Simple Way to Think About It

Imagine tapping quickly–slowly–quickly:

• First tap = semiquaver
• Slow step = quaver
• Last tap = semiquaver

It’s one beat that moves like a little “bounce” or skip—perfect for playful melodies.

For a more detailed walkthrough, you can watch the full video tutorial below, where each rhythm pattern is explained and practiced step by step.

The next step is simple—practice.

To help you get comfortable with counting and timing, we’ve created a free rhythm exercise PDF you can practice at your own pace. The exercises are short, clear, and beginner-friendly.

Blog