Music GCSE
Rhythmic stress
What Rhythmic stress means in Music GCSE, as defined for Pearson Edexcel.
Definition of Rhythmic stress
Check what you remember
Read the wording for your board, then hide it and explain Rhythmic stress in your own words. Rough notes are fine. This is a self-check, with no mark or grade.
Reference: Pearson Edexcel
Can come from an accent mark, a longer note value, a change of pitch or articulation, or the natural emphasis of a melody.
Topics that use Rhythmic stress
- Appendix 3: Musical vocabulary - Tempo, metre and rhythm (Pearson Edexcel GCSE)
Related terms
- Contrast with straight rhythm
- Distinguishing rhythm devices
- Dotted rhythm
- Metre
- Note lengthening and shortening
- Recognising syncopation in styles
- Rhythm
- Swung rhythm
Using Rhythmic stress 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.
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