Lecture Notes: Understanding Asymmetrical Time Signatures

Introduction

• Discussion on the challenges and intricacies of asymmetrical time signatures in music, such as 5/8, 7/8, 11/16.
• Human preference for regular patterns makes irregular meters challenging.
• Regular time signatures like 4/4 are easy and often passive.

Psychological & Physical Challenges

• Irregular meters are asymmetrical and cannot be divided equally.
• Playing in 4/4 is easy due to its regular pulse.
• Asymmetrical meters require active engagement and thinking.
• Risk of slipping back into regular counting, losing the rhythm.

Approach to Asymmetrical Meters

1. Conceptualize the Meters
   • Understand how these time signatures are structured.
2. Feel the Meters
   • Develop a natural feel for the irregular beats.

Conceptualization Strategy

• Any meter can be divided into groups of two and three.
• Regular meters like 4/4 divide into groups of two (eighth notes).
• Asymmetrical meters mix these groups.

Examples of Asymmetrical Meters

• 7/8:
  • Divided as 2+2+3, 3+2+2, or 2+3+2.
• 5/8:
  • Divided as 2+3 or 3+2.
• 11/16:
  • Divided as 3+3+3+2, 3+3+2+3, etc.
• 9/8:
  • Normally triple compound (3 groups of 3), but can be varied.
  • E.g., Dave Brubeck's "Blue Rondo à la Turk" uses a pattern of 2+2+2+3 and 3+3+3.
• 8/8:
  • Equivalent to 4/4, divided as 3+3+2 or other variations.
  • "The Simpsons" theme uses 3+2+3.

Feeling Asymmetrical Meters

• Key to mastering meters is practice to develop a natural feeling.
• Simplify practice by clapping beats without notes.
• Use a metronome set to an eighth note.
• Clap groupings, accentuating the first beat of each group.
• Gradually increase the pace to make it feel as natural as 4/4.

Conclusion

• Emphasize practice in developing comfort with asymmetrical meters.
• Ultimately aim for a natural groove.
• The lecture concludes with encouragement to continue practicing and experimenting.