What is indicated by a dotted quarter note?

A dotted quarter note signifies a duration of 1.5 beats. When a note is dotted, it adds an additional half of its original value to its duration. A standard quarter note is worth 1 beat, so when you add half of that (which is 0.5 beats), the total becomes 1.5 beats.

In a context of a time signature like 4/4, this means that the dotted quarter note occupies a length of time that can establish rhythmic patterns or be combined with other notes effectively. Understanding the value of a dotted note is crucial for musicians as it informs them about how to maintain time and manage energetic phrasing during performances.