Music A-Level
Additive rhythms
What Additive rhythms means in Music A-Level, as defined for AQA.
Definition of Additive rhythms
Check what you remember
Read the wording for your board, then hide it and explain Additive rhythms in your own words. Rough notes are fine. This is a self-check, with no mark or grade.
Reference: AQA
Rhythms where a regular metre is disrupted by the addition of a small rhythmic value, such as a semiquaver.
Topics that use Additive rhythms
- Area of study 7: Art music since 1910 - Named composers (AQA A-Level)
Related terms
- Birdsong transcription
- Expanded tonality and dissonance
- Grotesque and sarcastic musical topics
- Modes of limited transposition
- Musical cryptograms and personal motifs
- Non-Western musical influences
- Orchestration and timbre
- Phase shifting
Using Additive rhythms in the exam
Check the command word and mark scheme for your exact question. After comparing your explanation with the reference, use the term in an answer on the linked topic. This practice does not predict an exam mark.
Practise Music questions
Create a free account to answer exam-style questions on this topic and get feedback on your answers.
Start free
All Music A-Level termsA week of Premium from your first lesson · Then the free plan continues · No card, no charge