Video 8 – Asymmetrical patterns

Efficiency and clarity are paramount when conducting asymmetrical meters. They usually involve ‘floating’ gestures (smaller versions of the one in a bar pattern). As a consequence, it is important not to enlarge or exaggerate or complicate the floating gesture. This can result in you being less than metronomic for your players/singers!

This 'floating' gesture shouldn’t be larger than the other beats around it but should last longer in time (of course).

To ensure that the time doesn’t move when negotiating changing time signatures, try ‘tongue-clicking’ your way through the music. This internal subdivision is done by lightly saying a silent ‘tu’ syllable with the tongue on the ridge behind your upper teeth to the beats of the bar as you are conducting (mouth is closed and no sound is required but you can physically feel the beats and/or subdivisions).