The Process

After a brief explanation of how to use the book, rhythmic concepts are presented in a logical, gradual sequence. The concept of meter is introduced early, beginning with basic slap-clap-tap patterns set to counting patterns of 2, 3, and 4 beats. Simple texts such as days of the week follow, spoken in quarter note rhythms. New concepts such as rests, dots, ties, and syncopations are introduced gradually. By the end of the book, the "talking music" becomes quite sophisticated, with mixed and shifting meters, free use of tuplets, and dotted rhythms. Explanations and examples are clearly presented throughout the book.

As stated on its back cover, You've got Rhythm is suitable for students 9 years of age and older. Most of the texts require at least an upper elementary reading level. The authors' backgrounds in opera, vocal music, composing, and collaborative piano work are evident in the choice of texts and in the naturalness of the rhythmic settings. The patterns are often unpredictable and surprising, adding subtly to the humor or emphasizing the meaning and drama of the lyrics.

Rhythmic structures are introduced and explained in a logical and easy-to-understand manner. Particularly helpful are the explanations of how rhythmic patterns relate to the metric structure. Because much of the book is self-explanatory and the approach to performing the exercises is so consistent, not much verbal explanation is necessary, and the authors wisely avoid over-explaining.

Traditional approaches to "counting" rhythm are used sparingly, and only where necessary to clarify the structure or relationship of note patterns to the meter.