Here are some rhythmic figures which combine sixteenth notes and eighth notes within one beat. These figures are very common in many styles, so you will need to know them well. Practice each one carefully and be sure to tap your foot and count.
This symbol is a sixteenth rest.
It indicates quarter a beat of silence.
Eighth note triplets are a group of three evenly spaced notes played within one beat. Eighth note triplets are indicated by three eighth notes grouped together by a bracket (or a curved line) and the number 3 written either above or below the group. The eighth note triplets are played with a third of a beat each. Accent (play louder) the first note of each triplet group as it will help you keep time.
The triplet is introduced in the following example. Listen to the recording to hear the correct timing.
A common triplet rhythmic figure is shown next. A quarter note and eight note within a triplet is counted as 1…ah 2…ah 3…ah 4…ah. This rhythm creates a distinct 'swing' feel. Listen to recording to heat the correct timing.