Many polyrhythms and polymeters (simultaneous combinations of more than one rhythmic pattern) exist in today's music, with some being so common they could be referred to as rhythm licks. This book presents a unique and comprehensive approach to polymetric applications of various rhythms over common chord progressions and song forms in 3/4 and 4/4, written primarily for instruments with chordal capabilities. Non-chordal instrumentalists interested in rhythmic development and contemporary phrasing may also benefit. Polymetric rhythms will force a variety of harmonic anticipations and delays which can have a profound and beneficial effect on harmonic, melodic, and improvisational phrasing. In addition, the focused attention and expanded awareness needed to master these exercises can also help in your sensitivity and response to the surrounding environment and your interactions with other musicians and audience.

Percussive Attack Additions  

Percussive Exercises  

Study Tips  

Polymeters over 4/4  

3/4 and 6/8 over 4/4  

6/4 and 12/8 over 4/4  

12/4 over 4/4  

5/8, 5/4, and 10/4 over 4/4  

5/4 over 4/4  

10/4 over 4/4  

7/8 and 7/4 over 4/4  

7/4 over 4/4  

9/8 and 9/4 over 4/4  

9/4 over 4/4  

Polymeters over 3/4  

2/4 over 3/4  

4/4 over 3/4  

8/4 over 3/4  

9/8 and 9/4 over 3/4  

9/4 over 3/4  

5/8, 5/4, and 15/8 over 3/4  

5/4 over 3/4  

15/8 over 3/4  

7/8 and 7/4 over 3/4  

7/4 over 3/4  

Triplets and Quadruplets  

Triplets  

Quadruplets 

Melodic/Harmonic Considerations  

Melodic/Harmonic Polymeters over 4/4  

Melodic/Harmonic Polymeters over 3/4  

Continuing Polymetric Studies  

Additional meters over 3/4 and 4/4  

Common meters over odd meters  

Beyond Triplets and Quadruplets  

Biography