The following comparative timetable illustrates how polymeters and polyrhythms work with one another when played at the same tempo and time signature.The first fundamental polymeter starts with with 3 over-4 notes (3:4), followed by 5:4, 6:4, 7:4, and 8:4. Within each polymeter, one can subdivide the rhythm into any combination of eighth, triplet, sixteenth, or thirty-second notes. When these combinations are played concurrently with one of the five polymeters, they become polyrhythms. At the bottom of the pyramid are the most dissonant polymeters: 11:4, 13:4, 17:4, and 19:4. The dissonant polymeters complete the cycle of possible combinations. The main focus of the table, however, are the polymeters 3:4. 5:4, 6:4, 7:4, and 8:4. These are the most practical to learn and easiest to play. Polymeters and polyrhythms are also about mental independence. When learning, it is crucial to practice counting one polymeter (aloud or silently) while playing or clapping the […]

October 2022 Issue