4/4 vs 3/4 time signatures?

Question

I'm new to music theory so I'm sorry if my question is trivial. Is it correct to say that, in practice, the only difference between 4/4 vs. 3/4 time signatures is where the accents are located? To me, 4/4 and 3/4 seem very similar, apart from the location of the accents.

Answer 1

In general, I think your description is correct, but let me elaborate.

The accented sound you refer to is called the "down beat," the first note of every measure, indicated by the conductor by a downward movement of their hand. Even if the time signature changes within a piece, you'll always recognize the down beat as accented, whether the < sign is present or not.

When comparing 4/4 and 3/4 time, remember that 4/4 is a bit more symmetrical, evenly dividing in half, while 3/4 time has more of a swinging, waltz-like feel to it. They are described as "duple meter" and "triple meter," respectively. Consider the difference between a march like "The Emperial March" from Star Wars vs. Ed Sheeran's "Perfect."

I hope this helps.

Answer 2

While the first note of the first measure may not necessarily be literally accented with a "<" written above the note, you are right. The only difference between the two is that in 4/4, there are four quarter notes in a measure, while in 3/4, there are three quarter notes in a measure. When a conductor conducts the piece, he/she will most likely place an emphasis on the first beat, which in this case, the "accent" that you are probably referring to.