Introduction

Quadruplets and Four-Against-Three

In this chapter, we explore quadruplets––rhythmic division of a compound or triple metrical unit into four even parts––as well as the direct superposition of quadruplets against that triple organization. We start with quadruplets spanning one beat in compound meter before moving to large-value quadruplets spanning three beats. Though related, the two topics are separated because they require a different underlying performance skill.

Before beginning this chapter, it is important to have facility with two things: (1) switching between simple and compound divisions of a given beat and (2) performing accurate 3:2 two patterns, both at the beat level and at larger levels. These topics were covered in Chapters 4 and 5 and should be revisited if not yet mastered.

All two-part four-against-three exercises may be performed as duets or by one individual vocalizing/tapping both parts. We recommend practicing both ways.

A note about notation: Quadruplets in 6/8 are frequently notated with either eighth notes or sixteenth notes. Both are found in the literature. Our engraving software defaults to eighth notes, so that is what will be seen here. This can lead to visually confusing situations, in which a duplet in 6/8 is notated with eighth notes, while the division of that duplet into quadruplets is also notated with eighth notes. We will point this out when it happens.