Creating polyrhythms
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Lesson details
Learning outcome
I can combine rhythms to create a polyrhythm that can accompany a song.
Key learning points
- Ensembles need to rehearse together to be able to perform together successfully.
- Playing in an ensemble is an excellent way to develop our musical skills.
- Polyrhythms can be used to accompany a song.
- We need to balance our sound when performing in an ensemble.
Keywords
Ensemble - a group of people who perform together
Melody - a combination of notes to make a memorable tune
Accompaniment - a musical part that supports the main melody
Rhythm - the pattern of sounds and silences that we play and sing
Polyrhythm - playing two or more conflicting rhythms at the same time
Common misconception
Accompaniments only use on-beat rhythm patterns to help keep us in time.
Accompaniments can use any rhythms! Syncopated rhythms and polyrhythms can still keep us in time as we feel the offbeat and still feel the steady pulse.
Teacher tip
Sequence together your whole body, breathing and vocal exercises to warm up and prepare for singing together.
Equipment
Group sets of unpitched percussion e.g. claves, djembe and shakers.
Licence
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