What is rhythm?
Q: What is rhythm?
A: Rhythm is the length of time between each major beat or accent in a piece of music. It is the sequence of sounds and silences that make up the rhythm.
Q: How do we write down rhythms?
A: When we write down rhythms, we put them into bars or measures.
Q: What are some common patterns used in Western music?
A: Common patterns used in Western music include 1 2, 1 2 1 2 3, 1 2 3 1 2 3 4, and 1 2 3 4.
Q: Who helps to keep the rhythm steady?
A: A conductor will usually beat time to help keep the rhythm steady. Musicians must also have a good sense of rhythm and be able to keep a steady beat in their head (if playing alone), listen to other players (if playing with others) or watch the conductor (if there is one).
Q: How can musicians practice keeping a steady beat?
A: Musicians can practice keeping a steady beat by using a metronome.
Q: What is rubato?
A: Rubato is rhythmic freedom which allows for musical expression when playing romantic pieces of music. It requires learning how to let the music “breathe” correctly without playing unrhythmically (badly).
Q: Do animals have a sense of rhythm?
A: According to neurologist Oliver Sacks, chimpanzees and other animals do not have a sense of rhythm like humans do.
