A whole note is a basic musical symbol that represents a sound lasting for four beats in a measure. It looks like a hollow oval with no stem, making it easy to recognize. Whole notes are often used in music to indicate longer sounds, allowing musicians to create a smooth and flowing melody. In a 4/4 time signature, which is common in many songs, a whole note fills the entire measure. This means that when you play a whole note, you hold the sound for the full duration, giving it a strong presence in the music. Understanding whole notes is essential for anyone learning to play an instrument, like the piano or guitar.