Learning Intentions:

• To understand the rhythmic device 'syncopation'

• To identify syncopation on a score

• To compose using syncopation

Mozart's Serenade No.12 in C Minor, K.388. We are going to listen to Variation 3. 

Listen to Variation 3 in the YouTube clip 1.42-2.18.

In this variation, Mozart uses syncopation. This is a rhythmic device in  which the composer deliberately alters or disturbs the expected pattern of accents. Here, Mozart gives the accompanying instruments staccato notes which fall on the beat, while the notes of the melody occur off the beat (except in two of the sixteen bars).

In 3/4 time, beat 2 is a weak beat and in 4/4 time beat 2 and 4 are weak beats.

In Scherzo from Symphony No.4 in D minor by Schumann (0.00-0.29), accents are placed on beat 2 when the piece is in 3/4 time. This creates a disturbance to the natural beat pattern you expect to hear.

2. By placing an accented note between beats (off the beat).

In Dance of the Cygnets from Swan Lake by Tchaikovsky (0.22-0.42), notes are placed between the beats.

3. By placing a rest on a strong beat - especially the first beat of a bar.

In Waltz from Masquerade Suite by Khachaturian, a waltz rhythm is strongly established from the start of the piece. Khachaturian then adds crotchet rests to the first beat of the bar which disturbs the beat and makes the piece feel syncopated.

4. By tying (holding a note) over a strong beat.

In Maple Leaf Rag by Scott Joplin, a syncopated melody is played in the right hand of the piano above a steady beat in the left hand of the piano. This is typical of a piano rag.