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 (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.
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.
The use of eighth rests on the beat is a common way of achieving syncopated rhythms. Here is an example to help you understand the use of eighth rests. 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. This example is sung using the syllable ba. Try some other syllables with this melody as well.
This traditional Caribbean song makes much use of syncopated rhythms. It is written here in the key of D major, which was comfortable for both our female and male singers. The difference is that they are singing it in different octaves. You will also notice slight differences in timing and phrasing between the two versions.
This is a natural part of each singer’s personal expression. Phrasing, interpretation and improvisation are dealt with in Lesson 8. Once you have learned the song, you could try singing it in several other keys until you find the most comfortable key for your voice.
The key note (do) in this case is the final note of the song (a D note). To sing this in another key (e.g., key of F) play and sustain an F note on a keyboard or guitar while you sing the final phrase of the song. Check to see that your voice is finishing on the note F along with the instrument. Then sing the whole song in that key. Try keys which are both higher and lower than D by a small distance at first.
Eventually it is a good idea to try every song you know in all possible keys until you find the most comfortable key for your voice for each song. Then you can instantly tell the musicians who accompany you which key you prefer to sing the song in. This will always be appreciated and can save a lot of time at rehearsals.
2. Sounds of laughter everywhere,
And the dancing girls sway, to and fro,
I must declare my heart is there,
Though I’ve been from Maine to Mexico, but I’m
Sad to say, I’m on my way, etc.
3. Down at the markets, you can hear,
Ladies cry out, while on their heads they bear,
Ackie rice, salt fish are nice,
And the rum is fine any time of year, but I’m
Sad to say, I’m on my way, etc.
