The 4/4 time signature, also known as "common time," is perhaps the most frequently used time signature in Western music. It is characterized by its strong-weak-medium-weak rhythmic pattern, having four quarter-note (crotchet) beats per measure (bar). Many classical symphonies and sonatas start with a movement in 4/4 time but it was common from the time of Bach and Handel right through to popular music of the present day.