Using rhythmic devices

Key learning points

1. Rhythmic devices can be effective for creating interesting musical ideas, adding variety and developing ideas.
2. Common rhythmic devices include syncopation, polyrhythm, ostinato and anacrusis.
3. In some styles, using cross rhythms, hemiolas, diminution and augmentation can be very effective.
4. To choose rhythmic devices, consider your desired musical effect as well as what devices are most idiomatic.

Keywords

• Polyrhythm - multiple different rhythms playing at the same time

• Cross rhythm - a polyrhythm in which two or more of the rhythms 'conflict' and feel like they have a different pulse

• Hemiola - when three notes are played over the duration of two or vice versa, creating the feeling of tempo change

• Syncopation - where a rhythm emphasises notes in between the main beats

• Diminution - where the notes in a melody or rhythm are all shortened by the same proportion (e.g. in half)

Common misconception