Swung rhythm
What Swung rhythm means in Music GCSE, as defined for Pearson Edexcel.
Definitions of Swung rhythm
Exam boards and our study guides word this term in slightly different ways. Learn the version your board uses.
Check what you remember
Read the wording for your board, then hide it and explain Swung rhythm in your own words. Rough notes are fine. This is a self-check, with no mark or grade.
Reference: Pearson Edexcel
Two notes of the same value, usually quavers, are played with the first lengthened and the second correspondingly shortened, as often in jazz.
Pairs of notes written as equal quavers are performed with the first held longer and the second shorter, echoing a triplet feel.
Topics that use Swung rhythm
- 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
- Rhythmic stress
Using Swung rhythm 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.
A week of Premium from your first lesson · Then the free plan continues · No card, no charge