While 9/8 often feels like a “gateway” into odd meters, 11/8 takes rhythmic exploration a step further. At first glance, it can seem awkward—an uneven collection of pulses that resists symmetry. Yet for drummers, 11/8 offers an opportunity to explore phrasing ideas, stretch comfort zones, and develop a sense of rhythmic elasticity that translates into every musical style. Heard in Balkan folk traditions, contemporary jazz, progressive rock, and modern film scores, 11/8 is not so abstract. Mastering this meter requires both precision and imagination: the ability to count it accurately while simultaneously shaping phrases that sound natural, expressive, and musical. Understanding the Shape of 11/8 Unlike the more familiar compound meters, 11/8 resists easy symmetry. Its defining characteristic is the uneven distribution of pulses, which can be grouped in multiple ways: 3+3+3+2 – A forward-moving, almost dance-like pattern with a twist at the end. 2+3+3+3 – Creates anticipation by starting […]

October 2025 Issue