Rhythm dictation
Free interactive rhythm dictation exercises for all skill levels. The exercises progress from basic rhythms with quarter and eighth notes to more advanced rhythms with sixteenth notes, triplets, and different time signatures. Choose a topic below to get started.
Quarter notes
Practice recognizing and writing quarter notes.
Eighth notes
Practice recognizing and writing eighth notes.
Tied notes
Practice recognizing and writing tied notes.
Dotted notes
Practice recognizing and writing dotted notes.
Sixteenth notes
Practice recognizing and writing sixteenth notes.
Sixteenth notes
Practice recognizing advanced sixteenth notes.
Triplets
Practice recognizing and writing triplets.
Time signatures
Practice rhythms in new time signatures
How to practice rhythm dictation
Rhythm dictation is an ear training exercise where you listen to a rhythm and write it down. Developing this skill helps you improve your sense of rhythm and play more accurately.
Work through the exercises in each category above. The dictation exercises on Musicca are labeled "Ear training". Musicca also offers free rhythm imitation and rhythm reading exercises. If you find dictation challenging, try starting with these to become more familiar with rhythms.
It is important to keep a steady beat in your body while listening to better recognize the rhythm. Try tapping your foot along with the pulse. You can also count out loud using simple patterns such as "1 and 2 and" to break the rhythm into smaller parts.
Short and regular practice sessions are more effective than occasional long ones. Practicing for 10 minutes each day helps you gradually improve your listening skills. As you become more experienced, you will start to recognize and write rhythms more quickly and accurately.
Track your progress
Create a free account to save your results, track your progress, and compete with others on the leaderboard. With an account you can access all content on Musicca.
In addition to rhythm exercises, Musicca offers a range of other exercises. These exercises are suitable for all musicians, whether you play piano, guitar, or another instrument.
For schools
Musicca helps you teach ear training with engaging exercises that support students at every level. Students can practice both in the classroom and at home.
Musicca is free to use for schools. With an account, you can create classes, track student progress, and manage your students in one place.