Rhythm, polyrhythms and metronome practice
Short, practical guides to how polyrhythms work, how to count and practice them, and how to get more out of a metronome.
What is a polyrhythm? A clear explanation with examples
A polyrhythm is two evenly spaced rhythms played over the same span of time, like 3 against 2. How they work, how to count them, and how to practice them.
Read the guide →How to play 3 against 2: the 3:2 polyrhythm step by step
Learn the 3 against 2 polyrhythm: count it in six, say it as 'nice cup of tea', tap it hand by hand and practice it with a metronome that plays both layers.
Read the guide →How to play 3 against 4 (and 4 against 3)
The 3:4 and 4:3 polyrhythms explained: count them in twelve, learn the 'pass the golden butter' phrase, see them in notation and practice them with a metronome.
Read the guide →How to play 5 against 4: two methods that work
The 5:4 polyrhythm explained: where the notes fall on a 20-count grid, the quintuplet method that makes it playable, and how to practice it with a metronome.
Read the guide →What is a visual metronome, and who is it for?
A visual metronome shows the beat as well as sounding it. What it is, how it differs from a click, who benefits most and what to look for in a visual metronome app.
Read the guide →How to practice with a metronome and actually get faster
A practical method for metronome practice: find your clean tempo, raise it in small steps, move the click and practice with gaps so your own timing improves.
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