Syncopation
When you count along with music, there is often a natural pattern of accents on each beat. However, when ties are used with eighth notes, this often displaces some of the natural accents from on the beat to off the beat (i.e., in between the beats). This effect is known as syncopation.
The preceding example contains several syncopated rhythms created by the use of ties. Here is another example of syncopation. Listen to the way the accent is thrown to the + (and) part of the count by the use of ties.
Syncopation is common in Rock melodies. It is often used to make rhythms more dramatic and to propel the music forward. Here are some phrases to practice which contain syncopated rhythms created by the use of ties.
The Eighth Rest
This is an eighth rest.
It indicates half a beat of silence.
There are two common positions for eighth note rests – off the beat and on the beat. These are demonstrated in the following example which is sung with the syllable ba.
Now try these rhythms which contain eighth rests. Count and clap them first, then sing them using the syllable da.
The use of eighth rests on the beat is a common way of achieving syncopated rhythms. This example is written in the style of Bobby McFerrin, who often mimics instrumental solos with his voice. This style developed out of Jazz "scat" singing, a technique using wordless vocal lines which are often improvised.
The progression used for this example is the 12 Bar Blues. This progression is the basis of thousands of popular songs. Sing this melody using the syllable da, and then try it with other syllables as well.
