Singing and playing syncopated rhythms
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Lesson details
Learning outcome
I can play and sing syncopated rhythms and know that syncopation is when beats that are usually weaker are emphasised.
Key learning points
- We can identfy offbeats in a bar whilst counting and clapping.
- Syncopated music can give us a sense of movement, grab our attention, or add an interesting groove to a piece.
- Syncopation can be played on any instrument including the voice.
- We can play and sing different syncopated rhythms layered over each other.
Keywords
Syncopation - rhythms that emphasise the beats that are usually weaker
Offbeat - weak beats or notes between beats
Pulse - the regular, steady heartbeat of the music
Rhythmic ostinato - a repeating musical idea created from a rhythmic pattern
Common misconception
Syncopated rhythms are really difficult.
Syncopated rhythms can be simple rhythms, but the emphasis on the offbeat can create an interesting, but not necessarily difficult, sound to recreate.
Teacher tip
Allow time for pupils to practise the syncopated rhythmic ostinato without singing before attempting to do both.
Licence
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