Creating Rhythms

Creating rhythms is nothing more than placing different note values in a measure. The duration of the notes is what makes a beat interesting.

Sight reading rhythms is usually practiced by clapping the rhythm out or playing the rhythm on an instrument.

For many rhythm exercises we will be using the clapping technique.

Look at the notated rhythm below.

We can see the time signature is 4/4. And there are 3 measures of notes.

• In the first measure, we see one whole note (counts as 4 beats).
• In the second measure, we see two 1/2 notes (each counts as 2 beats).
• And in the third measure, we see four 1/4 notes (each counts as 1 beat).

We will use a clapping method to practice our rhythmic timing.

We start by counting 2 measures aloud, then clapping out our rhythm.

Let's practice sight reading and clapping with the rhythm below.

Take your time if this is new to you. A clear understanding of rhythms will allow you to tackle even the most complex styles of music.

Let’s work on another rhythm together.

Rhythm #1

Count, sight read and clap the rhythm below.

Now sight read and play the same rhythm on your instrument. Focus on the note start and duration of each note.

Piano (listen for the duration)

Rhythm #2

Let's practice some more, here's exercise #2.

Clapping

Again, on your instrument.

Piano (listen for the duration)

Rhythm #3

And, one more time.

Clapping

Once again, on your instrument.

Piano (listen for the duration)

Good Work!

🏗️ Rhythm / Dictation Exercises 2 - in process

🏗️ Dotted Half Notes and Ties - in process

🏗️ Rhythm / Dictation with melody

🏗️ The Breakdown Introduction

🏗️ Breakdown 1

🏗️ Breakdown 2a

🏗️ Breakdown 2b