Tuplet

A tuplet is a musical term that denotes a rhythmic grouping where the number of notes played within a duration is different from the number that would normally be expected for that duration. Most commonly, it refers to dividing a beat into a number of equal subdivisions other than powers of two (e.g., 3, 5, 7) in simple meter, or dividing a beat into something other than groups of three in compound meter.

The most common tuplet is the triplet, where three notes are played in the time of two. For instance, a quarter-note triplet occupies the same duration as two quarter notes. This allows for the division of a beat into three equal parts when the underlying meter emphasizes duple divisions.

Other tuplets are named based on the number of notes involved. A quintuplet consists of five notes in the space of four (or sometimes three), a sextuplet consists of six notes in the space of four (or sometimes two), a septuplet consists of seven notes in the space of four, and so on.

Tuplets are typically indicated by a bracket or slur above or below the notes, with a number indicating the number of notes in the tuplet. If the context is clear and unambiguous, the number may sometimes be omitted. The duration which the tuplet borrows time from is implied by the notation of the notes. For example, a triplet of eighth notes typically borrows time from two eighth notes.

Tuplets allow composers to create rhythmic complexity and flexibility within a piece of music, introducing deviations from the prevailing meter and adding syncopation or ornamentation. They provide a way to fit irregular groupings of notes into a regular pulse, creating interesting rhythmic effects.

The concept of a tuplet also applies to situations where fewer notes are played than expected within a duration. For instance, a "duplet" in compound meter refers to playing two notes in the time normally occupied by three.