Rhythm/Tempo Flashcards
3 against 2
The effect of three notes played against two. E.g. the bass subdivides the beat into 2 while the melody subdivides the beat into 3.
Augmentation
An increase in the length of notes.
Diminution
A decrease in the length of notes.
Irregular times signatures
The time signatures change or there are an unusual number of beats in a bar.
Time changes
Groupings of note changes, but the underlying pulse remains constant.
Triplets
A triplet is a group of three notes played in the time of two.
Accent/accented
Notes which sound louder than others.
Adagio
A slow tempo.
Allegro
A fast tempo.
Anacrusis
The note(s) before the first strong beat of a phrase.
Compound time
The beat subdivides into groups of 3.
Dotted rhythm
A long note followed by a short one or a short note followed by a long note.
Rallentando
Gradually getting slower.
Accelerando
Gradually getting faster.
Simple time
The beat divides into groups of two.
Syncopation
Accented notes are played off or against the beat.
Cross rhythms
Contrasting rhythms played at the same time.
Moderato
A medium speed.
Ritardando
The tempo slows down.
Rubato
The tempo slightly speeds up and slows down to allow for expression.
