Rhythmic accuracy
Performing with accurate rhythm is just as important as playing or singing the correct notes. You need to observe all of the rhythmic features of sheet music in order to perform the rhythm of a song accurately.
Knowing how many beats are in the bar will help you play with the correct timing. The time signature is next to the key signature and will tell you how many beats are in a bar.
Simple and compound time
There are two types of time. Simple time means each beat in a bar is a crochet and each beat can be divided in two, four or eight. 2/4, 3/4 and 4/4 are all simple time.
Compound time means each beat in a bar is divided into groups of three. 9/8 and 12/8 are both examples of compound time.
Syncopation
You should watch out for rhythms that are accented on the off beats. This is known as syncopation. When no syncopation is present, the accent falls on the strong beats in the bar. During sections of syncopation, the weak beats of the bar should be accented.
Dots and ties
Dots and ties are used to lengthen notes and should be counted carefully.
Dotted notes, commonly referred to as a scotch snap, are often used in the Strathspey.
