takt

Takt is a German term used in music theory and notation to denote a measure, the basic unit of time in a composition. It represents a fixed span of time that groups a set number of beats according to the piece’s time signature. In German scores, the boundaries of a takt are marked by bar lines, and the beats inside are defined by the note value that receives the beat. For example, in 4/4 time a takt contains four quarter-note beats.

In practice, takt can refer to either the entire bar or, more loosely, the pulse within the bar, depending on the context. The concept of takt is central to rhythm and meter, influencing how music is counted, conducted, and phrased. The tempo marking in a score determines the duration of each takt by specifying the length of the beat and, together with the time signature, how many beats fill the takt.

Usage and translation vary by language. In English-language scores, the equivalent term is usually bar or measure, with beat describing the pulse and tempo providing overall speed. The German term remains common in German editions and scholarly discussions of rhythm, meter, and notation.

See also: Tempo, Meter (music), Bar (music), Time signature.