M1 - Rhythm

Music Appreciation Module 1 – Elements Rhythm (Text Book: Chapter 3) Rhythm Rhythm is defined as the ordered flow of music (events) through time. Related aspects of rhythm: beat meter accent syncopation Beat is the regular, recurrent pulsation that divides music into equal units of time. Meter is the organization of beats in regular groups. Examples of types of meter: duple (beats in groups of 2) triple (beats in groups of 3) quadruple (beats in groups of 4) Accent is emphasis placed on a beat/note. Syncopation is emphasis or an accent on an unexpected beat/note. à Refer to the Music Fundamentals Review: Beat, Meter, Accent and Syncopation à Also, see the embedded video in the ebook for a demonstration. Tempo Tempo is the speed of the beat or the basic pace of the piece. Tempos are associated with emotional effect. The tempo is indicated at the beginning of a piece. – As with dynamics, Italian terms are used accelerando = gradually becoming faster ritardando = gradually becoming slower à See the embedded video and Music Fundamentals Review: Tempo, Accelerando and Ritardando The tempos above are all relative and open to interpretation. A metronome clicks or flashes at the desired tempo and can indicate an exact beat. For instance 60 on a metronome = 60 beats per minute. End of Module 1! • This module provides the basic vocabulary that will be used throughout the course and is essential to understanding the concepts discussed in subsequent modules. • Please check the task list and due dates to make sure that you have completed all of the items on time before proceeding to Module 2.