In musical terms, the third subdivision of the
whole note.
It represents one eighth of one whole note, which breaks it down to eight eighth notes per measure in
common time or 4/4.
This means that in 4/4 or common time (having four beats to the measure and the quarter note being worth one beat, as is indicated by the time signature itself) a whole note is worth four beats, a
half note is worth two beats, and a
quarter note is worth one beat.
Because of its exact placement in and around the downbeat, eighth notes are commonly used for
drumline exercises. These exercises build exactness of timing,
shape of attack, and rhythmic consistancy. The normal exercise calls for eight eighth notes played by the right hand, immediately followed by eight eighth notes on the left hand and then repeated once. Usually began
at a medium pace and dynamic and then varied.