Syncopation
The example below contains 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 it slowly at first and count carefully as you play. Remember to use a metronome or drum machine with everything you practice, to help you develop good timing.
The Eighth Rest
This is an eighth rest.
It indicates half a beat of silence.
The use of eighth rests on the beat is a common way of achieving syncopated rhythms. Practice this example slowly with a metronome and count out loud as you play. Once you are comfortable with the rhythm, try playing it along with the recording.
