Composing rhythmic ideas
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Lesson details
Learning outcome
I can create short rhythmic patterns as the first steps in free composition.
Key learning points
- The rhythm and syllables of words can help us create rhythmic variety in our compositions.
- Variety is important as it creates interest for the listener, so we need to use both simple and complex rhythms.
- We can also use syncopation and polyrhythms to create interest.
- Using repeated patterns or an ostinato allows the music to have a sense of unity.
Keywords
Ostinato - An ostinato is a short, repeated pattern.
Polyrhythm - A polyrhythm is when two or more independent rhythmic patterns are played at the same time.
Syncopation - Syncopation is when a rhythm emphasises notes in between the main beats; this effect is often created by half-beat rests on the beat or dotted rhythms.
Common misconception
To compose a rhythm we need to consider notation first.
It is important to encourage pupils not to be restricted by only rhythms they can notate and for them to experiment with rhythmic patterns that they like musically. Highlight that individual note durations such as a crotchet are not rhythms.
Teacher tip
Different options have been used as potential rhythmic starting points. Any notation has been used as an image to help explanation rather than to encourage pupils to compose rhythms. Notation can be restricting for creating rhythms so try to avoid pupils connecting up individual note durations.
Equipment
A keyboard (or other suitable instrument) or DAW/notation software
Licence
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