Music A-Level
Rhythm
What Rhythm means in Music A-Level, as defined for AQA.
Definitions of Rhythm
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Reference: AQA
Something affected by phasing, which must be recognised alongside its effect on texture in post-1910 art music.
A defining element characterised by syncopation, swing quavers, polyrhythms and cross-rhythms.
Refers to the specific durations of notes and rests placed within the metric grid.
Topics that use Rhythm
- Area of study 1: Western classical tradition 1650–1910 (compulsory) - Musical elements (AQA A-Level)
- Area of study 5: Jazz - Musical elements (AQA A-Level)
- Area of study 7: Art music since 1910 - Musical elements (AQA A-Level)
Related terms
- Thematic development
- A cappella
- Articulation
- Chromaticism
- coda
- Compositional techniques
- Expressive techniques
- Glissando
Using Rhythm in the exam
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