Keep uneven groups steady
On this page
Count all seven eighth notes in 7/8 while hearing where the 2+2+3 groups begin.
What to listen for
The eighth notes remain evenly spaced. A three-note group lasts longer than a two-note group; do not make the three group clicks equally spaced.
Try the practice
Check the setup
- Meter
- 7/8
- Tempo
- 120 BPM · eighth note beats
- Subdivisions
- Main beats
- Grouping
- 2+2+3
- Swing
- Straight
- Accent sound
- On
- Duration
- Stop after the stated task
- Count-in
- None
Opens in a new tab. Review the settings, then press Start when ready.
- Count ONE two, THREE four, FIVE six seven for four bars. The three drawn groups are 2+2+3.
- Tap all seven eighth-note positions while keeping the group-start clicks in their places.
- Stop and choose another supported 7/8 grouping. Count its groups aloud before starting again.
Another order of groups
7/8 supports 2+2+3, 2+3+2 and 3+2+2. Say the full seven-count pattern before changing the grouping. In 5/4, 3+2 and 2+3 group five quarter-note beats; they do not turn BPM into an eighth-note value.
What to check
Repeat four bars without squeezing the three-note group or adding time at the bar line.
When to simplify
Keep the default 2+2+3 grouping and count without tapping. Add tapping after the full seven-count cycle is stable.
Gap metronome practice
Keep that grouping internally while the click is silent.
Try the next practice