Syncopation
Here is another rhythm figure using dotted quarter notes. This time the eighth note is played first and the dotted quarter note is played off the beat. This creates an effect known as syncopation, which means displacing the normal flow of accents, usually from on the beat to off the beat. Practice this example slowly at first and count carefully as you play.
This well known spiritual makes frequent use of the syncopated rhythm shown above. If you have trouble with any of the timing in this song, practice the rhythm figures on one note at first as in the previous example.
Here are two more songs which contain syncopated rhythms. Take each one slowly at first and remember to count mentally as you play. Tapping your foot on each beat is another useful method of helping to keep good time when playing syncopated rhythms.
