Lesson on Syncopation

Now we'll have a look at syncopation. Syncopation means that we'll be playing on the off beat of the music.

The Basics of Syncopation

So, we count like this:
1 and 2 and 3 and 4.

Syncopation gives music a nice groove, so it doesn't sound quite so stiff.

Example Breakdown

Let's have a look at the example:

• First, we will have a quarter note.
• Then an eighth rest.
• Finally, an eighth note tied to a half note.

The same pattern repeats twice.

Practicing the Rhythm

Let's try it with snaps first to get the rhythm.

Count:

• 1 and 2 and 3 and 4.
• And 1 and 2 and 3 and 4.
• And 1 and 2 and 3 and 4, dot
• And 1 and 2 and 3, and 4.

Now, let's have a look at the pitches.

Pitch Training

Let's start with our three finger on G.

Count again:

• 1 and 2 and 3 and 4.
• And 1 and 2 and 3 and 4.
• And 1 and 2 and 3 and 4, dot
• And 1 and 2 and 3, and 4.

Final Practice

Now let's try with the backing track.