Topmusicanswers
What is polyrhythm used for?
Polyrhythm, also called Cross-rhythm, the simultaneous combination of contrasting rhythms in a musical composition. Rhythmic conflicts, or cross-rhythms, may occur within a single metre (e.g., two eighth notes against triplet eighths) or may be reinforced by simultaneous combinations of conflicting metres.
What is the most common polyrhythm?
The most common polyrhythm is the juxtaposition of triplets against quarter or eighth notes. A common alternative to thinking of these patterns in musical notation is to envision (or hear) them as ratios: the triplet example would have a ratio of 3:2. Other simple polyrhythms are 3:4, 4:3, 5:4, 7:8 and so on.
What is polyrhythm for kids?
“Polyrhythm” (also sometimes known as “cross-rhythm”) means the simultaneous performing of two different rhythms. For example, look at this animated video and you'll see two rhythms at play at the same time — 5/4 and 4/4.
