How long is a whole note in terms of beats?

A whole note is held for four beats in common time signatures, such as 4/4. This means that when a whole note is played or sung, it is sustained for the duration that encompasses four beats of a measure. In musical notation, the whole note's shape—a hollow oval without a stem—distinguishes it from other notes like half notes and quarter notes, which have shorter durations. Understanding the relative lengths of different note values is fundamental in music as it helps in reading and performing rhythms accurately. This knowledge is crucial for musicians when interpreting music and maintaining the appropriate tempo of a piece.