FRACTIONAL TIME SIGNATURES are time signatures containing in the top number a partial beat, such as ¼, ½, or ⅓. (Decimal form may also be used as well.)


Fractional time signatures can serve as a useful tool when modulating, phasing, and ”flipping” the beat in the following measure.


When counting a fractional time signature, the easiest and most accurate way is to think of it as a simplified version of an additive meter or a pattern of beats that subdivide into smaller irregular groupings.


An example of a fractional time signature: