1. A dotted value may represent the addition of half of the original

duration, or “half again as much as the original value” (“1+1/2

n

”).

Figure 1.5

Dotted Values: First Interpretation

2. A dotted value may be divisible into three non-dotted values:

Figure 1.6

Dotted Values: Second Interpretation

3. A dotted value may be divisible into two smaller dotted values:

Figure 1.7

Dotted Values: Third Interpretation

These varying uses of dotted values shall come into focus in subsequent discussions
concerning meter and notational practice in

Section 1.2 "Pulse, Tempo, and Meter"

and

Section 1.3 "Music Notation Practices"

below. As with non-dotted values, dotted

values are in proportion to one another as well.

Figure 1.8 "Dotted Values"

shows

the proportional chain of dotted values.

Chapter 1 The Elements of Rhythm: Sound, Symbol, and Time

1.1 Durational Values: Symbols Representing Time in Music

13