AOS 1: Rhythm and Metre

Question 1

Pulse

Answer 1

The beat in a piece of music.

Question 2

Simple and compound time

Answer 2

Simple: Duple (2/4), Triple (3/4), Quadruple (4/4)
Compound: Duple (6/8), Triple (9/8), Quadruple (12/8)
Simple can be divided into two, whereas Compound divides into three.

Question 3

Regular, irregular, free

Answer 3

Regular is when the metre follows a regular pattern. In Irregular time, the metre would often change, and in Free time there is no strict pattern.

Question 4

Augmentation, diminution

Answer 4

Making the notes longer in length, or putting an interval up a semitone. Diminution is the opposite.

Question 5

Tempo/ Rubato

Answer 5

The speed the music is played at. Rubato is when the performer has the freedom to alter the tempo whilst playing.

Question 6

Hemiola

Answer 6

The playing of three notes against two.

Question 7

Dotted rhythms

Answer 7

When the note before has half of it’s value added on the original note value.

Question 8

Triplets`

Answer 8

Three notes having the value of two.

Question 9

Syncopation

Answer 9

Emphasising the offbeat in a piece of music.

Question 10

Cross rhythm/ Polyrhythm

Answer 10

When two rhythms interweave with each other that are contrasting.

Question 11

Bi rhythm

Answer 11

Two different rhythms at the same time but with different metres.