half rest
Definition
Noun: A half rest is a symbol in musical notation that indicates a silence or pause lasting for two beats in common time (4/4 time signature). It is equal in duration to a half note.
Usage
The half rest is placed on the middle line of the musical staff. It instructs the musician not to play for the duration of two beats.
Examples
- In common time, a half rest receives two full beats of silence.
- The conductor pointed to the measure containing the half rest to emphasize the pause.
- The rhythm pattern included a quarter note, a half rest, and two eighth notes.
Advanced Usage
- In time signatures other than 4/4, the half rest still typically represents two beats, as its duration is relative to the whole rest, which represents a full measure of silence in many contexts.
- The half rest is distinct in appearance from the whole rest, which hangs from the fourth line.
Variants and Related Words
- Whole Rest (n): A musical rest typically equal to four beats in common time, or one full measure of silence.
- Quarter Rest (n): A musical rest having the time value of one beat in common time.
- Rest (n): A general term for a sign indicating silence of a specified duration in music.
Synonyms
- Minim Rest (British English): The British term for a half rest.
Related Symbols and Terms
- Half Note (n): A note that is played for the same duration (two beats in common time) that a half rest indicates for silence.
Noun
-
a musical rest having the time value of half a whole rest or equal in duration to two beats in common time
