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Syncopated Delivery

intermediate

Accenting off-beats and unexpected syllables. Creates groove and interest.

FunkR&BJazzHip-Hop

Notation / Pattern

Accent the "and" counts

Tips

Feel the spaces between beats. Syncopation lives in the gaps.

Applications by Time Signature

Learn how to apply this technique across different time signatures and rhythmic contexts.

7
8

Odd Meter Syncopation

Syncopatedadvanced

Finding the off-beats in asymmetric time. Challenging but rewarding.

Syllable Pattern
Accent between groupings
Counting Guide
1-2 1-2 1-2-3 with accents on 2s

Tip: Feel the 2+2+3 grouping first, then add syncopation.

4
4

Funk Syncopation

Syncopatedintermediate

Accenting the "and" of beats 2 and 4 for classic funk feel.

Syllable Pattern
Word on AND of 2, AND of 4
Counting Guide
1 and TWO and 3 and FOUR and

Tip: Lock with the snare. The ands are where funk lives.

6
8

Compound Syncopation

Syncopatedintermediate

Accenting the middle note of each beat group for a swinging syncopation.

Syllable Pattern
Accent on "la" of each beat
Counting Guide
1 LA li 2 LA li

Tip: The la pushes against the downbeat. Creates tension.

Ready to practice? Try the timing exercises to apply what you've learned.

Start Practicing