Swing Rhythms
Since the early 20th century there have been many new styles of music which use a rhythmic feeling called swing. These styles include Blues, Jazz, Gospel, Soul, Rock and Funk. A swing rhythm is created by tying together the first two notes of a triplet.
There are several different ways of writing swing rhythms. To understand them it is worth using one musical example written in various ways. The next example has the first and second notes of the triplet group tied together. Play this example and listen to the feeling created by the rhythm.
Instead of tying the first two notes of the triplet group, a quarter note can be used. The quarter note grouped with an eighth note by a triplet bracket shows clearly that the first note is worth two thirds of the beat, while the second note is worth only one third. Play the following example and notice that it sounds the same as the previous one. This is just a different way of writing the rhythm.
A third way to write the same rhythm is to notate the whole thing in eighth notes and to write 6 = z at the start of the music. Jazz players usually write swing rhythms in this manner, as it is easier to read. Play example 104 and notice that once again it sounds the same.
Here are some examples which contain swing rhythms. Remember, although the eighth notes are written as normal, they are played as swing eighths as indicated by the symbol before the start of each example.
This traditional New Orleans song has been played by many of the Jazz greats and was made famous by Louis Armstrong.
This 12 Bar Blues is mainly derived from the Blues scale but also contains other notes. Practice it slowly to begin with and then try increasing the tempo (speed).
There are no breath marks in this piece, but by now you should be able to work out the best places to breathe. Anywhere a rest occurs is usually a good place to take a breath. If there are no rests, breathe at the end of any whole note or half note.
You now have enough musical knowledge to begin improvising, which means creating your own melodies as you play. Try varying the notes of some of the songs and examples in the book, and then make up some of your own phrases based on them. The 12 Bar Blues is an excellent progression for improvising, particularly with the Blues scale. Experiment and have fun!
