How to Count an Eighth Rest

Eighth rests, or quaver rests, hold the same value as an eighth note. The difference between the two is that eighth notes are played with your instrument, and eighth rests require your instrument to be silent for the duration of the count. Eighth rests resemble the number seven and are placed in the middle of the staff of the measure where the rest is required.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

1. Assume a 2/4 time signature for this example. The quarter note sets the beat and there are two beats per measure.

2. Begin counting the beats per measure as "one-and, two-and." Repeat this count until you have a steady, constant beat.

3. Play your instrument on the count of "one" and release the note on "and." Do not hold the note through the end of the "and" count, but end the note at the beginning of the count.

4. Keep your instrument silent through the end of the first beat.

5. Sound your instrument again on the count of "two" and release the note on "and."

6. Continue practicing eighth rests until you are certain your eighth rests last for the duration of an eighth note.

Tips & Warnings

• Play four eighth notes in a row with your instrument before trying to insert eighth rests into the measure. You will get a better feel for when to release the eighth note if you must play another note after it. Once you are comfortable with how long an eighth note is held, start inserting the eighth rests.
• A metronome is helpful when you're first learning to count eighth rests. Start at a conservative pace and increase the speed when you are ready.