What term describes the grouping of beats into strong and weak positions in a metric sense?

• A. Tempo
• B. Meter
• C. Dynamics
• D. Timbre

Answer: (B)

Meter is the grouping of beats into strong and weak positions in a metric sense. It sets how the pulse is accented and how the rhythm feels over time. In common rock contexts, 4/4 places the main emphasis on the first beat, with a lighter emphasis on the second and fourth beats, giving a steady, driving feel you can count as one-and-two-and-three-and-four. In 3/4, there is a single strong beat per measure, producing a waltz-like sway. Some meters are compound, like 6/8, where the beat is felt in groups of three eighth notes, creating a different, lilting groove while still repeating in a regular pattern. This focus on where accents land is distinct from tempo (speed of the beat), dynamics (loudness), and timbre (tone color).