Syncopation
Syncopation can be defined as an accent on a normally unaccented beat. In * time it is usual to accent the first and third beats.
This can be syncopated by placing the accent elsewhere in the bar (either "on" or "off" the count):
The following example demonstrates the standard version of Aura Lee.
This melody can be syncopated by altering the timing of the notes so that the accents occur in different places. This has been done in bars 2, 3, 6, and 10. Observe the accent signs and timing of these bars; clap the rhythm before playing this piece.
"Jamaican Farewell" features extensive use of syncopation. For example, in bar 1 the tie creates a syncopated feel by moving the accent off the third beat and onto the second half of the second beat:
This example of syncopation occurs frequently throughout the song. Another example of syncopation can be found in bar 5, where the eighth note rest "pushes" the accent back to the "and" count of the first beat.
Part II features bass note picking, together with a reggae-styled syncopated rhythm. The rest, occurring on the third beat, is achieved by deadening the strings with the right hand, as shown in Photo 2. Use the right hand side of your palm to achieve this deadening effect.
